Chief Operations Officer

Chief Operations Officer Job Details

Job : 5504260

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Re‑Posted: Feb 09, 2026 12:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: To Be Determined

Job Title: Chief Operations Officer

Location: West Warwick Public Schools Administration Building

Reports To: Superintendent of Schools

Employment Type: Full‑Time

Salary: Competitive

The Chief Operations Officer is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for the comprehensive fiscal stewardship of the district's resources. This role ensures efficient use of funds, manages financial operations, and provides expert financial analysis and forecasting to support senior management in decision‑making and long‑term planning.

• Education:
  
  A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a Master’s degree or CPA preferred.
• Experience:
  
  3-5 years of financial leadership experience, preferably in a public school district or similar organization.
• Skills:
  
  Leadership, analytical, organizational, and communication skills; proficiency in financial software; ability to work with various stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and school data systems (e.g., Infinite Visions, Aspen, School Spring).
• Excellent communication, organization, and time‑management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the mission of public education.

• Lead financial planning and budgeting, overseeing accounting and financial reporting, managing compliance and audits, asset management, risk management, and contract oversight.
• Oversight of human resources and benefits, food services, transportation, and facilities contracts.

Financial Planning and Budget Management:

• Leads development and management of operating and capital budgets, including forecasting and analysis.

Strategic Financial Leadership:

• Oversees accounting functions and ensures accurate reporting under GAAP and GASB standards.
• Develops and implements a long‑range financial plan supporting the district’s strategic goals and capital improvement needs.
• Provides data‑driven projections for enrollment, tax revenue, and state/federal funding.
• Advises the Superintendent and School Committee on financial implications of policy decisions, collective bargaining agreements, and legislative changes.
• Supervises finance staff.

Human Resources & Benefits Oversight:

• Collaborates with Human Resources on employee benefits, position coordination, and ensures compliance with labor regulations.

Budget Development & Management:

• Leads the annual budget process, coordinating with department heads and principals to allocate resources equitably across schools.
• Present the annual budget to the public, school committee, and town council.
• Monitor expenditure trends and implement corrective actions to ensure the district operates within its approved budget.

Financial Operations & Compliance:

• Oversees daily operations of the Finance Department, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, and General Ledger.
• Ensures compliance with GAAP and GASB requirements.
• Manages annual audits and maintains internal controls.
• Manages risk, insurance coverage, and develops risk mitigation procedures.
• Directs purchasing process, including bidding, negotiation, and contract administration (transportation, food service, facilities).

Grant & Fund Management:

• Supervises administration of federal (e.g., Title I, IDEA), state, and local grants.
• Manages district’s debt service, bond issuances, and investment portfolios to maximize returns while ensuring financial stability.
• Handles investment activities, fixed asset control, and debt management.

Stakeholder Communication:

• Translates complex financial data into accessible reports and presentations for non‑financial stakeholders.
• Serves as liaison to District and Town’s Director of Finance.
• Represents the district in community forums regarding fiscal matters.

Standard office environment within the central administration building. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for school events or deadlines.

• At least 3 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Bachelor degree preferred.
• Citizenship, residency or work visa required.

• Larissa Munoz, Human Resources Executive Assistant
• 10 Harris Avenue
• West Warwick, Rhode Island 02893
• Phone: 401‑825‑7229
• Fax: 401‑822‑8434
• Email: lmunoz