The Shlenker School of Congregation Beth Israel | Houston, TX
The Shlenker School, an infant–5th grade Jewish independent school in Houston, TX, seeks a strategic and collaborative Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to serve as a key member of the Administrative Team.
Shlenker serves more than 330 students, manages an approximately $7 million operating budget, and is a 2020 National Blue Ribbon School. Our 16-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a 1.5-acre outdoor classroom, SPARK Lab, purposeful play spaces, and a full gymnasium.
Position Overview
Reporting directly to the Head of School, the CFO is responsible for the financial stewardship and operational sustainability of the School. This is a full-time, 12-month position (Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.).
The CFO oversees all business office functions, including finance, accounting, budgeting, facilities, risk management and insurance, technology, compensation, and employee benefits. The role requires close collaboration with the Board of Trustees, Finance Committee, and senior leadership, as well as strong relationships with external partners and Congregation Beth Israel.
Direct reports include the Business Manager, Controller, and Staff Accountant.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Strategy
Oversee financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term projections
Prepare and present financial reports to the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and Finance Committee
Support strategic planning and major initiatives, including capital projects
Collaborate on Annual Fund goals, tuition modeling, and tuition assistance planning
Accounting & Compliance
Ensure sound financial controls and GAAP compliance
Supervise payroll, accounts payable/receivable, tuition billing, and financial aid processes
Coordinate annual audits and maintain relationships with auditors, banks, and investment managers
Partner with Advancement to ensure accurate gift accounting and reporting
Personnel & Benefits Administration
Oversee compensation planning, salary benchmarking, and benefits administration
Supervise employment agreements, onboarding processes, background checks, and payroll
Ensure compliance with all state and federal employment requirements
Risk Management
Oversee insurance and risk management
Coordinate safety compliance, inspections, and corrective actions
Collaborate with school leadership to proactively address safety and legal risks
Technology & Systems
Support technology planning, budgeting, and system implementation within the Business Office
Stay current on financial and administrative systems used by independent schools
External & Professional Engagement
Serve as the School’s liaison to auditors, legal counsel, insurers, contractors, and vendors
Provide required data for NAIS, ISAS, NAEYC, and other professional associations
Participate in regional and national independent and Jewish day school finance networks
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field (advanced degree preferred)
Minimum of 5 years of experience in an independent school or nonprofit setting preferred
Strong expertise in financial management, budgeting, and organizational leadership
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders
Commitment to supporting a mission-driven school community
Culture & Leadership
The CFO is expected to contribute positively to school culture by modeling collaboration, professionalism, and respect, and by supporting faculty, staff, administrators, and trustees in advancing the School’s mission and values.
