Position Summary: The Director of Finance & Operations is a key member of the administrative leadership team responsible for the strategic and day-to-day oversight of all financial, human resources, payroll, and operational functions of the Regional Office of Education (ROE). This position ensures fiscal integrity, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and high-quality internal support across departments and programs.

Essential Functions

Oversee all accounting and finance functions, including journal entries, month-end close, financial reporting, audit coordination, and cash flow management.
Lead annual budget development and financial projections; issue budget reports and monitor internal controls.
Manage payroll processing, reporting (IMRF, TRS, W2s, 941s), and employee work calendars.
Administer employee benefits, leaves, and position control; review salary calculations and employment agreements.
Supervise accounts payable/receivable, vendor records, procurement cards, and purchasing compliance.
Submit and monitor grant budgets and expenditure reports; maintain compliance with state and federal requirements.
Serve as the ROE’s representative for risk management, building leases, and facility-related matters.
Direct LCROE Foundation accounting, audits, and investment oversight.
Provide systems administration for LINQ, DocuSign, and internal platforms.
Supervise and evaluate the Finance and Human Resources team.
Actively participate in local, state and national professional organizations.
Serve as a liaison to Lake County School Districts.
Other duties as assigned by the Regional Superintendent of Schools.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proficient use of Google Workspace.
Strong decision-making skills.
Outgoing, friendly, and customer focused.
Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and organizational skills.
Demonstrate leadership abilities, must be a team player.
Ability to meet deadlines, communicate clearly and effectively - written and verbal and work with speed, attention to detail and consistency.

Education and/or Other Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
Currently holding or obtaining Professional Education License (PEL) and Chief School Business Official (CSBO) endorsement.
Relevant experience and/or post-secondary training in Business.

Physical Requirements

It requires mainly office work, involving standing or walking some of the time, exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular basis, and high dexterity in operating office equipment, including a keyboard, phone, copier, etc.
The position requires normal visual acuity and field of vision and the ability to hear and speak to understand, respond to and build relationships with a diverse clientele.