Job Description

The Business Officer serves as the School’s chief financial administrator and is responsible for the management of tuition billing, collections, financial operations, and business administration functions of the School. The Business Officer ensures financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and professional stewardship of School resources.

This position plays a critical role in a tuition-based private school environment and serves as the primary liaison with families regarding tuition accounts and financial obligations.

The Business Officer reports directly to the Executive Director and works collaboratively with the Governing Board on financial oversight matters as requested.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Tuition Management & Family Accounts

• Administer all tuition billing, invoicing, and payment schedules.
• Manage tuition contracts and payment agreements.
• Monitor accounts receivable and ensure the timely collection of tuition and fees.
• Communicate professionally and confidentially with families regarding balances, delinquent accounts, and payment plans.
• Develop and implement tuition collection procedures consistent with School policies.
• Coordinate tuition payment platforms and financial software systems.
• Maintain accurate and confidential financial records for each student account.
• Provide regular aging reports to the Executive Director.

2. Financial Operations & Accounting

• Oversee daily financial operations of the School.
• Manage accounts payable and receivable.
• Assist with budget preparation and financial forecasting.
• Reconcile bank statements and financial accounts.
• Maintain internal financial controls.
• Prepare monthly financial reports for review by the Executive Director and Governing Board.
• Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, or tax professionals as needed.
• Ensure compliance with applicable financial reporting standards.

3. Budget & Fiscal Oversight

• Assist in the development and monitoring of the annual operating budget.
• Track revenue against enrollment projections.
• Monitor expenditures to ensure alignment with approved budgets.
• Identify financial risks and recommend corrective actions.

4. Enrollment & Financial Coordination

• Collaborate with admissions staff regarding enrollment numbers and tuition projections.
• Support financial aid administration, if applicable.
• Ensure tuition contracts are properly executed prior to student enrollment.
• Provide financial reporting related to enrollment growth and retention.

5. Policy & Compliance

• Develop and maintain tuition and financial policies.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, including employment, tax, and financial regulations.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student and family financial information.
• Ensure proper documentation and record retention practices.

6. Vendor & Contract Management

• Oversee vendor payments and service agreements.
• Review financial terms of vendor contracts.
• Maintain appropriate documentation for all business transactions.

· The Business Officer shall not have unilateral authority to execute contracts or authorize expenditures beyond limits established by the Governing Board or Executive Director.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of experience in financial management, accounting, or business operations. Experience in a private or tuition-based school environment preferred.

· Experience managing accounts receivable and collections

· Strong organizational and analytical skills

· Proficiency in financial software systems and spreadsheets

· Strong financial and operational management skills

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills

· Experience with tuition management systems

· Experience with budget development and forecasting

Type of fingerprint clearance: Shall be fingerprint checked pursuant to A.R.S 15-512
Physical functions: Ability to move throughout campus facilities, attend athletic events and activities, sit, stand, and operate standard office equipment.
Equipment used: Frequent computer use is expected.
Work Environment: This position is primarily office-based but may require occasional attendance at school events or Governing Board meetings.

This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.