Chief Financial Officer @ Des Moines Public School District

Des Moines Public Schools invites applications from dynamic, innovative leaders for the 2027–2028 school year. Join us in advancing our Reimagining Education efforts and supporting our school community.

The posted salary range reflects the first quartile through the midpoint of the position's salary range. Compensation will be determined based on skills, relevant work experience, and education. In addition to base salary, this position qualifies for a 14% tax-sheltered annuity (TSA).

Des Moines Public Schools provides single and family health benefits valued at approximately $35,000 annually at no cost to employees. Relocation assistance of up to $6,000 is also available.

Title: Chief Financial Officer

Classification: Non-Licensed Administrator

HIRING SPECIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Advanced degree in accounting, business, or public administration or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience

Work Experience

• Five years previous supervisory
• Ten years experience in school business administration or public accounting

Licensure or Certification

• Certified Public Accountant
• School Business Official license or ability to obtain

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge and practice in governmental accounting.
• Extensive knowledge in public governmental budgeting processes.
• Effective written and oral communication and presentation techniques.
• Knowledge of payroll, budgeting and forecasting techniques and preparation of a large organization budget.
• Extensive knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles for government entities and ability to apply these principles in the preparation of financial statements.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Attend work on a prompt and regular basis.
• Maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.

Job Summary

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) oversees the budgeting, accounting, financial management and reporting matters in the district. The CFO serves as a key advisor to the Superintendent and is a member of the Superintendent's Cabinet. This position requires continuous use of independent judgment, autonomous decision-making, and strategic foresight in leading the business and finance area of the district. The essential functions as shown below represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position requirements will vary depending on the needs of the district.

Essential Functions

• Coordinate, in conjunction with the superintendent, all major financial related initiatives of the district.
• Lead cross-functional teams to implement forward-thinking initiatives that enhance the financial efficiency of the district to support student outcomes. Streamline processes, enhance productivity, and optimize resource allocation through fiscal solutions.
• Coordinate all external audit activities and serve on the audit committee of the Board.
• Coordinate with the appropriate district personnel for all insurance-related requirements.
• Act as district administrator of the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System, direct the administration of the financial activities, and act as the district's liaison to the advisory committee.
• Direct the preparation and implementation of the district's financial budget presentation (book), interim financial statements, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, and Certified Annual Report.
• Work collaboratively with schools and departments in financial and business matters; demonstrate excellent organizational skills as well as skills in written and verbal communications.
• Actively support the efforts of the Board, Superintendent, and colleagues to achieve district goals and objectives.
• Prepare reports and coordinate record keeping in accordance with the requirements of the district, state, and federal programs.
• Attend all Board meetings, serving as a resource person for the Superintendent and Board.
• Serve as treasurer of the Board; responsible for treasury management functions including investment of district funds.
• Maintain professional learning and growth through professional organizations, seminars, course work, and collaboration.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Department: Business & Finance

Reports To: Superintendent

Highest Level Supervised: Director

Bargaining Group: N/A

FLSA Status: Exempt

Calendar: 12 Month / 8.0 Hour Day

Physical Requirements

PHYSICAL DEMAND

FREQUENCY

Standing

Frequent 33% - 66%

Walking

Frequent 33% - 66%

Sitting

Frequent 33% - 66%

Bending/Stooping

Occasional 1% - 32%

Reaching/Pushing/Pulling

Occasional 1%- 32%

Climbing/Stairs

Occasional 1% - 32%

Driving

Occasional 1% - 32%

Lifting (10 lbs.)

Occasional 1% - 32%

Carrying (25 feet)

Occasional 1% - 32%

Manual Dexterity Tasks

Telephone

Frequent 33% - 66%

Computer

Frequent 33% - 66%

Other

Never 0%

Working Conditions

Inside

Constant 67%+

Outside

Occasional 1% - 32%

Extremes of Temperature/Humidity

Occasional 1% - 32%

The Des Moines Independent Community School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. If you have questions, concerns or a complaint related to this policy, please contact Carol Wynn-Green, 901 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309; phone: 515-242-7709; email: [email protected]. Complaints can also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, 400 E. 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-1004, (515) 281-4121, or Region VII Office for Civil Rights, Citigroup Center 500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475 Chicago, IL 60661-4544.

All candidates offered a position will be required to successfully pass a criminal background check, and a child and adult abuse registry check. Certain positions may require fingerprinting, a drug and alcohol test, a physical capacity test and/or a motor vehicle record check.

Approved By: Matthew Smith

Date: 11/05/2026