Business Manager

About West End Day School (WEDS)

West End Day School (WEDS) is More Than A School it is a community of students, staff, and parents who have a shared vision. WEDS, a pioneer in the practice of social-emotional teaching, is an independent, special education school in New York City for 1st through 7th graders, with an upcoming expansion to the 8th grade in 2025-2026. Our mission centers on creating a safe haven for learning and fostering the development of resilience in children to build a strong foundation for their lifelong success. The foundation of our school is rooted in the belief that all behavior has meaning, and that how children feel impacts how they learn.

WEDS is striving to diversify its faculty and student body. We encourage people of color and members of other underrepresented groups to apply and join our community as we continue to grow and learn. We are deeply committed to equity, inclusion, social justice, compassion, and non-violence and seek candidates who share this commitment and strive to join us in celebrating and honoring differences. This loving school does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, age, socio-economic status, physical disability, or sexual orientation in any form. This is true for all hiring practices, privileges, administration of our education policies, admissions policies, and other school-related programming.

Position Overview

WEDS is seeking a hands-on, strategic School Business Manager to oversee all financial, human resources, and operational functions of the school. The Business Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the school while also championing a positive work environment and efficient operational practices. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of the school, working closely with the Head of School, trustees and the administrative team to support our unique mission.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Oversight

• Lead the annual budgeting process and partner with the Head of School on long-range planning.
• Monitor monthly financial performance, interpret trends, and provide actionable insights.
• Prepare financial forecasts and scenario analyses (e.g., enrollment shifts, staffing changes).
• Present financial updates to the Head of School and Board of Trustees
• Support tuition modeling, multi-year planning, and strategic decision-making.
• Manage, mentor, and supervise the Staff Accountant

Audit & Compliance

• Manage all aspects of the annual financial audit including coordination with auditors to ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards.
• Monitor and maintain financial controls and risk mitigation measures

Risk Management, Human Resources & Insurance

• Oversee insurance policies, renewals, and coverage assessments.
• Maintain records required for regulatory and compliance purposes.
• Review and support vendor/contract agreements to protect the school’s interests.
• Ensure accurate employee classification and wage compliance (FLSA).
• Oversee benefits administration Including compliance of the school’s retirement plan (403(b)), i.e. contributions, reconciliations, and required filings.
• Maintain compliance calendars, filings, and annual reporting requirements.
• Coordinate with the payroll processor and staff accountant to ensure accurate documentation.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Master’s degree preferred.

Experience

• Extensive experience in financial and operational management, preferably in an educational or nonprofit setting.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, budgeting, financial analysis, and HR administration.
• Independent school/special education or nonprofit experience preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Dedication to the mission and values of a specialized, small school setting.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• High ethical standards and integrity.
• Strong command of financial management software.

Reporting Structure and Start Date

This position reports directly to the Head of School. The start date for this position is for February of 2026.

Check Us Out

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The benefits package includes summer vacations, holidays, personal/sick days, a flexible spending account, health insurance after 90 days of employment, professional development opportunities, and a 403(b) retirement plan with a 6% employer contribution after one year of employment.