About the School
Cristo Rey Charleston High School seeks a strategic, hands-on leader to serve as its Founding Vice President of Finance & Operations. A key member of the President’s leadership team, this role works closely with the Board of Directors to build and manage the financial and operational infrastructure of a new, mission-driven high school. Cristo Rey Charleston High School will open in August 2027 as the 42nd school in the Cristo Rey Network, welcoming an inaugural class of approximately 100 ninth-grade students and growing to 400 students by 2031. Cristo Rey schools combine rigorous college-preparatory academics, Catholic values, and a unique Corporate Work Study Program in which students gain professional experience one day per week. This program helps fund approximately 50% of each student’s education. Cristo Rey schools exclusively serve students with limited financial means.
About the Role
Reporting to the President, the Vice President is responsible for financial stewardship, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability. This leader will develop and oversee budgets, ensure strong internal controls, and manage core business functions to support a safe, efficient, and high-performing school environment. The Vice President will have the opportunity to design finance and accounting functions as the school opening approaches, including the establishment of procedures and controls over financial transactions and will work with other management personnel to budget for anticipated school finances including diverse revenue sourcing from multiple partners.
Responsibilities
Financial Strategy & Leadership
- Partner with the President, leadership team, and Board to develop and execute long-term financial strategy
- Lead financial modeling, forecasting, and capital planning
- Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets
- Provide clear financial reporting and analysis to leadership and stakeholders
- Ensure compliance with GAAP, audits, tax filings, and regulatory requirements
- Maintain strong internal controls, policies, and risk management practices
Accounting & Finance
- Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, cash management, and benefits
- Manage preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
- Lead the annual audit and external auditor relationship
- Oversee banking, insurance, and key vendor relationships
- Support Corporate Work Study billing and collections
Student Financial Services
- Oversee tuition billing, collections, and financial aid
- Ensure financial aid practices align with mission and sustainability goals
Operations Oversight
- Provide leadership and oversight across core operational areas, including:
- Human Resources: Compensation, benefits, compliance, performance management, and staff policies
- Facilities: Campus operations, maintenance, and vendor management
- Transportation: Student transportation systems for school and work-study placements
- Security: Campus safety planning and vendor oversight
- Dining Services: Vendor selection and management, including federal meal program compliance
- Information Technology: IT vendor management and E-Rate program participation
Risk Management & Governance
- Oversee insurance programs and contractual risk protections
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
- Serve as Corporate Treasurer
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree required, Master’s Degree or CPA preferred.
- Strong understanding and demonstrated leadership in accounting, financial and operations management.
- Minimum ten years of senior management experience in a corporate, mission-driven, or not-for-profit organization, preferably an educational institution.
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
- Adept at leading change and driving continuous improvement.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate financial data and concepts to diverse stakeholders.
- Commitment to ethical leadership and to the mission, values, and goals of Cristo Rey.
- Successful candidates will be required to pass a background check.
Pay range and compensation package
Full-time, year-round position with competitive salary and comprehensive benefits (medical, dental and vision plans, life and disability insurance, 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off and paid holidays). Annual compensation of approximately $115,000 commensurate with experience and education.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Cristo Rey Charleston High School is committed to diversity and inclusivity.
Application Process
Submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to careers@cristoreycharleston.org.
