Business Manager

Business Manager

Bardwell Group - Charter School Management Company
Location: Metro Detroit (with support to multiple campuses)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary

Bardwell Group is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Business Manager to support the financial and operational management of our charter school campuses. The Business Manager plays a critical role in ensuring fiscal integrity, compliance, and efficient day-to-day business operations in support of school leadership and student success.

This role works closely with school principals, central office leadership, and external partners to manage budgets, financial reporting, purchasing, payroll coordination, and compliance requirements.
Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Budgeting

• Develop, manage, and monitor school budgets in collaboration with leadership
• Track expenditures to ensure alignment with approved budgets
• Prepare financial reports for school leadership, boards, and management
• Monitor grant funds and restricted accounts for compliance and accuracy

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Oversee accounts payable and receivable processes
• Process purchase orders, invoices, reimbursements, and expense documentation
• Coordinate payroll processing and verify accuracy with HR and payroll vendors
• Reconcile accounts and assist with month-end and year-end close processes
• Support annual audits and financial reviews

Procurement & Vendor Management

• Manage purchasing processes in accordance with school and authorizer policies
• Maintain vendor relationships and contracts
• Ensure proper documentation and approvals for all financial transactions

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with state, federal, authorizer, and board financial requirements
• Assist with required financial reporting and data submissions
• Maintain accurate and organized financial records and documentation

Operational & Administrative Support

• Serve as a key business partner to school leadership
• Support enrollment, attendance, and funding-related reporting as needed
• Participate in leadership meetings related to operations and finance
• Assist with special projects and operational initiatives as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (required)
• Minimum of 3-5 years of financial or business management experience
• Prior experience in charter schools, K-12 education, or nonprofit organizations strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, accounting principles, and financial reporting
• Experience working with payroll systems and accounting software
• High level of organization, accuracy, and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• High level of discretion and professionalism

Preferred Experience

• Charter school finance or school management organization experience
• Familiarity with Michigan charter school authorizer requirements
• Experience supporting audits and board reporting