EXECUTIVE OPPORTUNITY

AN INVITATION TO APPLY FOR THE POSITION OF 

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND OPERATIONS

PORTSMOUTH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT, NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Portsmouth School Department invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of Finance and Operations. This is an outstanding opportunity for a strategic and collaborative leader to guide the financial and operational systems of a high-performing coastal school district, who is committed to supporting students, staff, and the broader community through strong financial and operational leadership.

About the City of Portsmouth

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, a vibrant seacoast community of approximately 25,000 residents, is widely regarded as one of the most desirable communities in New England. Situated along the Piscataqua River, the city blends historic character with a dynamic arts, cultural, and economic landscape. Portsmouth offers:

• A walkable and lively downtown
• Proximity to beaches, trails, and year-round recreation
• Strong economic vitality including the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and regional employers
• Convenient access to Boston, the Lakes Region, and the White Mountains

About the Portsmouth School Department

The Portsmouth School Department serves approximately 2,400 students across:

• Three elementary schools
• One middle school
• One high school
• One alternative high school program
• A districtwide PreK program

The district operates an annual budget of approximately $67 million and is guided by a five-year Strategic Plan aligned to the community’s Portrait of a Graduate. Portsmouth schools are consistently among the highest performing in New Hampshire and benefit from strong community support and investment in public education.

About the Position

The Director of Finance and Operations serves as a key member of the Superintendent’s leadership team and works closely with the School Board to ensure:

• Long-term financial sustainability
• Strong operational systems
• Responsible stewardship of public resources

This executive-level role oversees the financial and operational infrastructure that supports the daily functioning of the district and plays a central role in advancing strategic priorities.

Key Responsibilities

The Director of Finance and Operations provides leadership and oversight for:

• Budget development, long-range financial planning, and fiscal reporting
• Accounting systems, purchasing, and financial controls
• Payroll, employee benefits, and insurance programs
• Facilities operations and capital planning support
• Transportation and food service programs
• Contract management and vendor relations
• Compliance with state, federal, and local financial regulations

The position also serves as a primary advisor to the Superintendent and School Board on financial and operational matters.

Leadership Profile

The successful candidate will be:

• A strategic thinker with strong financial acumen
• A collaborative leader who builds trust across stakeholders
• An effective communicator able to translate complex financial information clearly
• A systems-oriented problem solver with attention to detail
• A visible and responsive member of the district leadership team

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, or related field
• Significant experience in financial management, budgeting, and organizational operations
• Experience in municipal, governmental, or similarly complex environments preferred
• Demonstrated leadership of teams, systems, and operational functions
• Strong analytical, communication, and strategic planning skills

Compensation

The Portsmouth School Department offers a regionally competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, commensurate with experience, including participation in the New Hampshire Retirement System.

Timeline

The position will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The expected start date for the successful candidate is July 1, 2026.

For more information, please contact: NESDEC Search Office, Portsmouth Director of Finance and Operations Search, NESDEC, 28 Lord Road, Marlborough, MA 01752; Phone: 508-481-9444; Email: search@nesdec.org

All inquiries and nominations will be handled confidentially.

To access the application, please visit www.nesdec.org

https://www.applitrack.com/nesdec/onlineapp/