Mirman School - Chief Financial Officer

Los Angeles, CA

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.   

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.    

The CFO Role at Mirman School 

Key Responsibilities: 

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
     

What Makes This Opportunity Compelling   

1. A School with Strong Demand and a Distinctive Mission: Mirman maintains strong and stable enrollment with demand across all grade levels, providing a secure and confident foundation for future growth and innovation. 
    
2. Strong Financial Foundation and Capacity for Investment: Mirman is supported by a strong and stable financial foundation, operating with an annual budget of approximately $22 million, $12 million in endowment and reserves, and nearly $2 million in annual fundraising, reflecting consistent enrollment demand and an engaged community. The school carries approximately $9.8 million in manageable debt and has demonstrated a disciplined, strategic approach to financial stewardship—positioning it well to support campus expansion, strategic plan implementation, and continued investment in its programs and people. 
    
3. A Transformational Campus Expansion: Mirman is in escrow to acquire seven additional acres of adjacent land, effectively doubling its campus footprint. This once-in-a-generation opportunity will enable the school to reimagine its campus and program for future generations.
    
4. A Bold Strategic Vision for the Future: Mirman is developing a new strategic plan focused on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, faculty investment, and long-term sustainability. A key component includes developing a campus master plan and long-range financial model. 
    
5. A True Strategic Partnership with the Head of School: The CFO will serve as a trusted advisor and partner to the Head of School and Board, contributing meaningfully to strategy, planning, and institutional leadership.   
    

The Ideal Candidate 

Mirman School seeks a leader who combines strong financial acumen with a collaborative, mission-driven approach to leadership. 

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   

The 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.    

All inquiries, nominations, and questions should be directed in confidence to: James Palmieri, CEO and Search Lead

jpalmieri@nboaadvisoryservices.com           

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and letter of interest ASAP through the application link on this page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until filled. The desired start date is July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.  

Please do not contact the school directly. Interested candidates should apply using the form on this page at their earliest convenience. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

Mirman School actively seeks to enhance diversity and inclusion, and is an equal opportunity employer. Mirman School encourages applications from persons of color, women, individuals living with disabilities, and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, creed, disability, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal and/or state law. 

Mirman School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, or any other protected category in the creation or implementation of its admission policies, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, or any other school-administered program, service or privilege.