Director of Finance and Operations

Director of Finance and Operations Job Description

Full Job Description

OVERVIEW

Based in San Francisco’s Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood, The Little School is a nationally recognized, inclusive preschool founded in 1984 and serving approximately 110 children ages two to six. Rooted in a relationship-based philosophy, the school provides individualized, high-quality early education through a range of programs from part-time classes for two-year-olds to a highly regarded transitional kindergarten. Supported by a dedicated staff of about 40 long-tenured educators, administrators, and an engaged parent community, The Little School continues to thrive as a vibrant, collaborative learning environment.

Their amazing facility, which they are honored to call home, was intentionally designed to welcome all children. In addition to their modern and mindfully constructed classrooms, with their lofts, sensory tables, cozy nooks, peekaboo windows, and expansive indoor Sky Room provides a space for physical exploration and gross motor development with an emphasis on proprioceptive and vestibular awareness and input. Their yard is home to two sand areas, a stream, greenery, and plant life. The outdoor area also houses their special Yellow Building, created specifically for intentional pullout sessions and small group work with children, including a padded sensory area and art space.

The School enjoys consistently strong enrollment, $10M in investable assets, no debt, and clean audits. The Director of Finance and Operations role offers a rare opportunity to shape systems, build capacity, and have a lasting impact in a close-knit community that values collaboration, thoughtful decision-making, and continuous improvement.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director of Finance and Operations is a key member of the senior leadership team and a strategic partner to the Executive Director, providing vision and direction for the financial health, operational efficiency, and organizational sustainability of The Little School. This role is responsible for overseeing all financial, administrative, and operational functions, including budgeting, accounting, human resources, IT, and facilities. The Director of Finance and Operations will champion innovation, equity, and transparency, ensuring that systems and processes support the school’s mission and values.

This is a full-time, in-person position. The role requires occasional evening or weekend attendance at school events and board meetings. The Director of Finance and Operations will supervise a part-time Accountant, outsourced HR Associate, and the Administrative Coordinator.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting, ensuring compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements. Includes month-end and year-end close processes, resulting in timely reporting.
Oversee development, fundraising, and grant management, collaborating with the Executive Director to maximize revenue streams. This includes but is not limited to collaborating with the development Chairs, donation reconciliation, and supporting the Executive Director and Administrative Coordinator with Annual Fund appeals, donation letters, and general campaign oversight.
Serve as the primary liaison for annual audits and external financial reporting.
Develop and implement robust internal controls and policies to safeguard assets and ensure compliance.
Supervise payroll, personnel records, and HR functions, including but not limited to onboarding/offboarding, 403b plan, employment agreements, and fostering a positive and equitable workplace culture.
Collaborate with staff, board, and parent volunteers to support school-wide initiatives and strategic planning.
Identify opportunities for process improvement and technology integration, promoting innovation and sustainability.
Present clear, actionable financial and operational data to diverse audiences, including staff, board, and families.
Ensure contracts and vendor relationships align with school policies and values.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Degree in Accounting, Finance, Nonprofit / Business Administration, or a related field. CPA, MBA, or equivalent experience is preferred.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in finance, operations, or nonprofit management, with at least five years in a leadership role.
Experience with nonprofit accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting.
Familiarity with QuickBooks Online, ADP payroll, and Google Workspace/Microsoft Office preferred.
Demonstrated ability to work with diverse stakeholders, including board, staff, and families.
Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community-centered leadership.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Exceptional financial and operational acumen.
Ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
Strategic thinking and adaptability in a dynamic environment.
Leadership through collaboration, transparency, and respect.
Proficiency in technology and data management.
High integrity, reliability, and a service-oriented mindset.

EXCELLENT WORK/LIFE BALANCE, SALARY, AND BENEFITS

8 weeks paid time off/school closures.
Compensation range of $150K to $185K.
100% employer paid medical, dental, vision, chiropractic, and acupuncture coverage.
Free parking.
403(b) program with generous contribution.
Healthcare, commuter, and dependent care FSA programs.
Professional development opportunities.

CONTACT

This retained search is managed by Mary Law Executive Search, the Bay Area leader in placing nonprofit and private school Finance and HR professionals.

Mary Law

mary@marylawexecutivesearch.com

925-785-6991