Chief Financial Officer Opportunity

Woodland School

Portola Valley, CA

Since our founding over 40 years ago, Woodland School has developed students who demonstrate courage to do what is right. We believe it takes both strength of mind and heart to live with integrity, to find one’s passions, and to create meaningful change in the world.  As a result, social emotional learning is thoughtfully woven into all aspects of a Woodland experience and creating meaningful relationships is a cornerstone of our work together.  Our core values of respect, integrity, curiosity, resilience, equity, and stewardship serve as guideposts for our community. We have seen tremendous growth over the last 5years, with full capacity enrollment of 325, up from 265 in 2019. Our School operates with $16M in revenue, ample reserves/endowment, and no debt.

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a key member of the School’s senior leadership team, responsible for the overall financial health and strategic fiscal management of the School. The CFO partners closely with the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and leadership team to steward the School’s resources, ensure operational efficiency, and support the mission and long-term sustainability of the institution. This role requires a balance of strategic vision, operational expertise, and deep financial acumen.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Strategy

● Develop and implement financial strategies that align with the School’s mission, goals, and long-term plans.

● Serve as a strategic advisor to the Head of School, Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership team, in preparing and presenting financial reports, forecasts, and analysis.

● Lead annual budgeting and multi-year financial planning processes.

● Manage and steward the School’s newly formed endowment, including investment oversight, compliance with spending policies, and regular reporting to the Board of Trustees.

Accounting & Financial Management

● Oversee all aspects of accounting, payroll, tuition billing, accounts receivable/payable, and financial reporting.

● Ensure accurate and timely preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.

● Manage the annual audit process and maintain strong internal controls.

Tuition, Enrollment, and Development Support

● Partner with Admissions and Development to align tuition pricing, tuition assistance, and fundraising efforts with the School’s revenue goals.

● Oversee the administration of the financial aid program in partnership with the Tuition Assistance Committee.

Operations & Risk Management

● Supervise business office staff and vendor contract management.

● Manage the School’s insurance programs and risk mitigation strategies.

● Manage employee health, 401(k), and other benefit programs to ensure they are competitive, sustainable, and aligned with the School’s mission and resources.

● Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and reporting requirements.

Board & Committee Engagement

● Provide clear, accurate, and timely information to the Finance, Audit, and Investment Committees of the Board of Trustees.

● Support the Head of School in fostering a strong, transparent relationship with the Board regarding financial matters.

Qualifications

● Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field required, CPA or MBA a plus

● Significant senior financial management experience, ideally in an independent school, nonprofit, or mission-driven organization.

● Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, forecasting, investment management, and GAAP accounting.

● Experience with tuition management, tuition assistance programs, and nonprofit fundraising financial practices preferred.

● Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, mentor, and manage staff.

● Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

● High level of integrity, discretion, and commitment to the School’s mission and values.

● Eagerness to engage in the life of an elementary school campus.

Upcoming Opportunities for the New CFO

● Convert School’s vision in the Strategic Plan 2023-2028 into realities supported by effective financial planning.

● Spearheading and architecting the School’s endowment framework.

● Campus development supported by effective master planning and lease negotiation.

● Support high teacher retention and a strong workplace through continued success of Woodland’s competitive compensation program, data-informed approaches, and new initiatives.

Community Engagement

● Dedicated to advancing Woodland’s mission and core values by aligning financial leadership and budget planning with organizational objectives.

● Visible presence on campus and highly engaged in the daily life of the school.

● Actively engaged in the community with genuine enthusiasm and a proven passion for finance.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice

We believe a diverse and inclusive community strengthens our ability to fulfill our mission, and the CFO plays a vital role in ensuring that financial strategies and decisions reflect the School’s commitment to equity and access. This includes transparent stewardship of resources that support affordability, Tuition Assistance, employee well-being, and community programs. As a senior leader, the CFO models cultural competence, fosters an inclusive workplace, and actively contributes to making our School an equitable environment for all students, families, and staff.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation range of $225,000 to $250,000, excellent benefits, 401K employer contribution of 5% after one year of employment, $1000 wellness stipend, and generous professional development program.

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 Law Executive Search

mary@marylawexecutivesearch.com

925-785-6991