Director of Finance & Operations

The Academy for Innovation in Medicine (AIM) is an innovative STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) middle and high school launching in Fall 2026 to address Atlanta’s critical healthcare workforce shortage. AIM will prepare students for high-demand healthcare careers.

Key Facts:

• Launch Year:
• Opening Grades: 6th and 9th
• Full Enrollment by Year 4: 870 students (grades 6-12)

Reports to: CEO (with dotted line to the Board Finance Committee)

Supervises:
Assigned Operations or Clerical Staff (as applicable)

Status:
Contracted, expected to move to Full-Time, Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Finance and Operations (DFO) serves as a senior leader responsible for ensuring the fiscal integrity, operational efficiency, and compliance of the school. The DFO oversees all financial systems, human resources functions, grants management, and operational processes to ensure the school’s resources and infrastructure align with its mission, charter commitments, and strategic priorities.

This position works closely with the CEO, Board Finance Committee, and external partners to promote transparent, compliant, and strategic management of funds and operations in support of student success and organizational sustainability.

ESSENTIAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Leadership and Oversight

• Leads the development, implementation, and monitoring of the annual budget in collaboration with the School Leader and Board Finance Committee.
• Oversees all financial operations including accounting, purchasing, and financial reporting.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and charter requirements, including GAAP and fiscal reporting deadlines.
• Prepares accurate, timely financial statements, forecasts, and reports for the School Leader, Board, and authorizer.
• Manages procurement processes, contracts, and purchasing procedures in accordance with policy and internal controls.
• Coordinates the annual audit and ensures timely resolution of any findings. Monitors cash flow, reserves, and grant funds to ensure long-term financial stability.

Human Resource and Payroll

• Oversees all HR and payroll functions, ensuring compliance with employment law, DOE reporting, and school policy.
• Supports staff recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and personnel documentation.
• Administers benefits and compensation in coordination with the School Leader and external providers.
• Maintains accurate HR records and ensures confidentiality and data integrity

Grants Management and Compliance

• Oversees management of all federal, state, and private grants, including budgeting, drawdowns, and documentation.
• Ensures compliance with the Charter Schools Program (CSP) and other restricted fund requirements.
• Prepares and submits financial documentation for state, federal, and authorizer reporting cycles.
• Tracks and monitors program expenditures to ensure alignment with approved grant budgets.

Operations and Facilities Oversight

• Oversees daily operational systems including procurement, vendor contracts, and facility maintenance.
• Ensures compliance with safety, security, and health standards.
• Monitors the school’s insurance coverage, risk management, and emergency response systems.
• Partners with the CEO to align operational spending with strategic and instructional goals.
• Coordinates major operational projects such as technology upgrades, renovations, or capital improvements.

Governance and Leadership Collaboration

• Serves as a key advisor to the CEO and Board Finance Committee on fiscal, operational, and compliance matters.
• Presents budget updates, audit results, and financial analyses to the Board.
• Develops clear, transparent reporting tools for Board monitoring of financial and operational performance.
• Participates in strategic planning, long-term facilities planning, and organizational development.
• Fosters a culture of efficiency, integrity, and continuous improvement in all business and operations functions.

PROFESSIONAL/PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

The Director of Finance & Operations must:

• Demonstrate integrity, fiscal responsibility, and sound judgment.
• Communicate financial and operational data clearly to diverse audiences.
• Exhibit strong analytical, organizational, and…