Director of Accounting (Arkansas based)

Job description

We're excited to provide the best education in the best environment to our students! Director of Accounting Reports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Location: Blytheville School District – Blytheville, AR Employment Classification: Full-Time Salary Range: $95,000–$120,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience Position Summary AMS Impact Group is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Accounting to support the financial operations of the Blytheville School District. AMS Impact Group serves as the Education Management Organization for the Blytheville School District under contract with the Arkansas Department of Education. While employed by AMS Impact Group, the Director of Accounting will work directly with the Blytheville School District and serve as a key member of the District's Finance Department. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Director of Accounting is responsible for overseeing the District's accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, payroll accounting oversight, grant accounting, and compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. This role plays a critical part in ensuring fiscal integrity through accurate financial reporting, sound accounting practices, and effective stewardship of public funds. Key Responsibilities Accounting & Financial Reporting Direct all accounting operations for the Blytheville School District. Oversee the General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Cash Management, Fixed Assets, and Bank Reconciliations. Ensure timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting. Prepare financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Arkansas Department of Education requirements. Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation. Budget Administration & Financial Analysis Support development and administration of the District's annual operating budget. Monitor revenues and expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility. Prepare financial analyses, forecasts, and budget reports for district leadership. Assist with long-range financial planning and capital improvement initiatives. Provide financial guidance to department leaders and school administrators. Compliance & Internal Controls Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations. Coordinate internal and external financial audits. Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls that safeguard District assets. Ensure compliance with Arkansas procurement laws and purchasing requirements. Support implementation of accounting policies and financial procedures that improve operational efficiency. Grant Accounting & Financial Stewardship Monitor grant budgets, expenditures, and reimbursement requests. Ensure compliance with federal and state grant requirements. Partner with program administrators to maximize grant funding opportunities. Prepare financial reports required by granting agencies. Payroll & Financial Operations Provide financial oversight of payroll accounting and employee benefits expenditures. Partner with Human Resources to ensure payroll accuracy and compliance. Review payroll-related financial reporting and reconciliations. Support accurate accounting of compensation, benefits, and related liabilities. Leadership & Collaboration Supervise accounting and finance personnel. Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance expectations. Promote professional development and continuous improvement within the Finance Department. Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer, district leadership, school administrators, auditors, and external agencies. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Chief Financial Officer. Required Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field. Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting or finance experience. Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or management experience. Experience preparing and administering complex organizational budgets. Demonstrated experience with governmental accounting, financial reporting, and annual audits. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong knowledge of governmental and fund accounting principles. Experience with financial statement preparation and budget administration. Knowledge of internal controls, financial compliance, and risk management. Experience managing grants and restricted funding. Understanding of payroll accounting and purchasing processes. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills. Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external stakeholders. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and financial management systems. Preferred Qualifications Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Experience in Arkansas public school finance. Knowledge of Arkansas Department of Education financial reporting requirements. Experience utilizing APSCN/eFinance or similar governmental financial management systems. Experience managing federal and state education grants. Working Conditions Primarily office-based with prolonged periods of sitting and computer work. Occasional travel between District facilities and meetings with external agencies. Occasional evening meetings or extended hours during budget development, financial reporting, or audit periods. Benefits Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Life and Disability Insurance Arkansas Teacher Retirement System (if applicable) or applicable retirement benefits Paid Time Off and Holidays Professional Development Opportunities Why Join AMS Impact Group? Join a mission-driven organization committed to strengthening public education through operational excellence. As Director of Accounting, you'll play a key leadership role in ensuring the financial integrity of the Blytheville School District while partnering with educational leaders to support student success and long-term fiscal sustainability. Join us to enjoy rewarding challenges and ongoing opportunities!