COO / Director of Business and Finance

Ross Institute

The Director of Business and Finance / COO will report to the Founder and Board of Directors of the Ross Institute.  Candidates should have a demonstrated track record with a minimum of 10 years relevant experience and responsible for managing financial, legal, human resources, and administrative functions.  This includes preparing the budget and financial reports, conducting financial analyses, developing and maintaining an effective system of accounting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and maintaining accurate and current records. This person is charged with promoting high standards of performance, programmatic and financial accountability, ensuring the implementation and success of the Founder’s initiatives, thereby transforming the Institute into more disciplined operations dedicated to achieving their mission of excellence in educational innovation and research.  This position must work in collaboration with the Director of Academics of Ross Institute to direct fundraising and development activities, marketing, and other external activities to ensure that non-traditional revenue streams are enhanced.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned at the discretion of the Founder.

·         Establishes and executes programs for the provision of the capital required by Ross Institute, including negotiating the procurement of capital and maintaining the required financial arrangements. Assesses the financial requirements implicit in the Institute’s strategic plans and develops alternative ways in which financial requirements can be satisfied.

·         Manages the cash-flow position of Ross Institute.  Responsibility includes authority to establish credit and collections and purchasing policies and to establish schedules for the payment of bills and financial obligations.

·         Approves all agreements concerning financial obligations, such as contracts for products or services and other actions requiring a commitment of financial resources. This includes managing the financial and contractual arrangements for employee benefit plans.

·         Responsible for the financial aspects of real estate transactions, and executes bids, contracts and leases.

·         Ensures the maintenance of appropriate financial records and preparation of required financial reports. Reports on the administrative and financial affairs of the Institute to its leadership in a clear and concise manner.

·         Directs preparation of budgets and financial forecasts.

·         Develops and manages an integrated, automated financial management information system.

·         Represents the Institute’s interests in all income tax and financial reporting matters.

·         Ensures the judicious management and use of all real estate assets.

·         Develops and implements appropriate training and development opportunities for Ross Institute staff.

·         Creates and manages a comprehensive human resources office.

·         Works with outside counsel as directed by the Founder.

·         Assists the Founder with a broad variety of development, fundraising and external relations activities in collaboration with the Director of Academics.

Qualification Requirements:

Education, Training, and Experience: Master’s Degree in Business or related field required.

Language Skills: Requires superior oral and written communications skills. Ability to communicate effectively and interact with all personality types and levels of management.

Mathematical Skills: Ability to analyze and organize financial data.  Ability to make accurate computations.

Other Skills and Abilities: Must be computer literate with ability to quickly adapt to new computer software packages. Proficient in Microsoft products such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. Experience working with financial and capital asset software programs. Requires ability to analyze information to arrive at an appropriate solution. Must be able to maintain strict confidentiality. Able to work long hours and be flexible. Entrepreneurial spirit essential.

Travel: Must be available to travel and spend considerable time in East Hampton, NY.