Costa Mesa, California
Posted: 18-May-26
Location: Los Angeles, California
Type: Full Time
Salary: $300,000-$330,000
Categories:
Salary Details:
Mirman School invites nominations and applications for the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This is a compelling opportunity for a strategic and collaborative financial leader to join a nationally recognized independent school dedicated to highly gifted learners at a moment of institutional strength, growth, and future-oriented planning.
The CFO is the school’s senior financial leader and a key member of the executive leadership team, serving as a trusted strategic partner to the Head of School, Dr. Marina Kheel, and working closely with the Board of Trustees and its Finance and Audit and Facilities Committees, as well as faculty and staff. The CFO provides leadership across financial strategy, business operations, facilities, human resources, and risk management—ensuring the school’s long-term financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, and alignment with its distinctive mission.
This role offers meaningful visibility, influence, and partnership within a mission-driven organization known for its academic rigor, innovative approach to teaching and learning, and deep commitment to supporting the whole child. At a time marked by a transformational campus expansion, a new strategic plan in development, and continued investment in programmatic excellence, the CFO will play a central role in helping to shape and steward Mirman’s next chapter.
Primary Areas of Responsibility
Strategic Financial Leadership
- Lead the development and execution of the school’s financial strategy in alignment with its mission and long-term priorities
- Direct the annual operating and capital budgeting processes in partnership with the Head of School and the Board’s Finance and Audit Committee
- Develop multi-year financial models to support strategic planning and decision-making
- Provide clear, actionable financial insights to the executive leadership team and Board of Trustees
Operational and Organizational Leadership
- Oversee finance, human resources, facilities, and campus safety functions
- Provide leadership for talent strategy, workforce planning, and organizational development
- Lead the business office team, and foster a collaborative, inclusive, and service-oriented culture across operational teams
Facilities and Capital Planning
- Lead long-term planning for the school’s campus and physical plant, including development and implementation of a comprehensive campus master plan
- Oversee capital projects, deferred maintenance, and campus improvements
- Serve as liaison to the Board’s Facilities Committee and be a key partner in aligning facilities planning with institutional priorities
Governance, Risk, and Stewardship
- Partner closely with the Finance and Audit Committees of the Board of Trustees
- Oversee audit, compliance, risk management, and internal controls
- Ensure the integrity and sustainability of the school’s financial and operational systems
About Mirman School
Founded in 1962 and located in the Santa Monica Mountains of Los Angeles, Mirman School is a nationally recognized K–8 independent school serving approximately 430 students across 71 zip codes and dedicated exclusively to educating highly gifted learners. The school’s mission is to cultivate the boundless potential of each student, nurture their passions and talents, and develop a diverse community of creative and constructive lifelong learners.
Mirman is distinguished by its commitment to educating the whole child—balancing advanced academics with social-emotional learning, character development, and experiential, project-based opportunities. Students are encouraged to take intellectual risks, explore their passions, and develop the skills needed to thrive as thoughtful, innovative leaders in a rapidly changing world. Innovation is central to the Mirman experience.
Professional Qualifications
- Proven experience in senior-level financial and operational leadership role in a nonprofit setting, preferably in an independent school
- Deep expertise in financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and long-range modeling
- Experience overseeing audits, compliance, and financial systems
- Experience leading or partnering on human resources and operational functions
- Ability to manage complex projects, external relationships, and multiple institutional priorities
- A bachelor’s degree, advanced degree, and/or professional credentials (CPA, MBA, or similar) are preferred.
Leadership and Personal Qualities
- Strategic thinker who can translate financial data into clear and actionable insights
- Collaborative leader who builds trust across diverse stakeholders
- Clear and effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills
- Hands-on, service-oriented approach to leadership and problem-solving
- Adaptable and forward-thinking, with a commitment to continuous improvement
- Appreciation for the mission of a school serving highly gifted learners and a commitment to supporting the whole child
Search Process
Mirman School has engaged NBOA Advisory Services to lead the search for its next Chief Financial Officer. This search is being conducted in close partnership with Head of School Dr. Marina Kheel and her CFO Search Committee.
The salary range for this position is $300,000-$330,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additionally, Mirman School provides a comprehensive benefits program that supports employees’ personal well?being and professional growth throughout their careers.
For more information and to apply, visit:
https://www.nboaadvisoryservices.com/mirman-school
All inquiries, nominations, and questions should be directed in confidence to:
James Palmieri, CEO and Search Lead
jpalmieri@nboaadvisoryservices.com
Please do not contact the school directly. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled. Priority will be given to those received by June 1, 2026. The desired start date is July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
