Chief Financial and Administrative Officer

BerryDunn has partnered with our client, Hyde School, located on the coast of Maine, a vibrant, mission-driven independent school committed to nurturing the whole young adult through academic excellence, community engagement, and a deeply personalized student experience. Hyde's mission, "Develop Character to Discover Unique Potential", guides the belief that leadership, curiosity, courage, integrity, and concern are the foundation for academic learning and success in life. We are seeking a financial leader who shares a passion for education and understands the value of investing in a unique, transformative school experience.

As a strategic partner to the Head of School, the Chief Financial Officer plays a critical leadership role in ensuring the financial strength and operational effectiveness of the organization. The CFO oversees all aspects of finance, human resources, and business operations, providing thoughtful analysis, clear reporting, and long-range planning that support the school’s mission and sustainability. This role is responsible for optimizing systems, technology, and resource allocation to advance institutional goals. In addition to financial management, the CFO provides key insights that inform major decisions and shape school-wide strategy. The role also oversees essential support functions, including facilities, food services, and information technology, ensuring integrated and efficient operations across campus.

• Lead daily operations of the Business Office
• Approve financial commitments, including leases, loans, contracts, and real estate transactions
• Manage cash flow, borrowing, and short-term investments in accordance with board policy
• Oversee banking relationships, loan and lease agreements, and all incoming/outgoing funds
• Align financial planning with the school’s strategic goals and develop funding strategies
• Maintain accurate financial records; provide regular reports to the Head of School and Board of Trustees
• Ensure compliance with external financial reporting and audit requirements
• Manage accounting for endowment and planned giving instruments; track and allocate gifts appropriately
• Prepare for and support annual audits, tax filings (Form 990, 5500), and other compliance reporting
• Develop annual budgets and financial forecasts in collaboration with the Head of School; recommend tuition and fees
• Oversee HR functions, including policy development, payroll, benefits, and regulatory compliance
• Handle all staff personnel matters: hiring, evaluations, compensation, and separations
• Maintain effective internal controls and resolve audit-related issues
• Manage risk and insurance to ensure safety and protection of school assets and individuals
• Supervise outside use of school facilities

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance or accounting along with 5+ years of experience in a CFO, Controller, or Assistant CFO/Controller/ Business Manager role preferably in an educational or non-profit environment
• Strong background in finance, budgeting, investing, and cash management
• Previous supervisory experience with strong human resources understanding.
• Ability to communicate with constituents and the Board of Directors
• Advanced technology skills including Microsoft Suite, Google, and database management software, similar to Blackbaud

The base salary range targeted for this role is $150,000 plus bonus. This salary range represents a good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. If an applicant possesses experience, education, or other qualifications more than the minimum requirements for this posting, that applicant is encouraged to apply, and a final salary range may then be based on those additional qualifications; compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, years of experience, depth of experience, seniority, merit, education, training, amount of travel, and other relevant business considerations.