Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (Barrack) and Perelman Jewish Day School (Perelman) are seeking a visionary and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead financial operations of their combined institutions. Together, the schools are launching a single, unified, premier independent Jewish community day school for PreK-12 in time for the start of the 2027-2028 school year. The new school will be the only PreK-12 independent Jewish community day school in Greater Philadelphia, and the only local Jewish school to draw on the exceptional legacy of a combined 150 years of academic excellence. The CFO will have a rare opportunity to shape the financial strategy of two respected Jewish day schools that are committed to academic excellence, strong community values, and sustainable growth.
Reporting to Head of School, Rabbi Marshall Lesack, the CFO will serve as a key member of the unified school’s senior leadership team, providing strategic financial leadership, operational oversight, and guidance on long-term planning and risk management. This role will partner closely with school leadership, board committees, and lay stakeholders to ensure financial sustainability, transparency, and alignment with the school’s mission and growth objectives.
The ideal candidate is a trusted advisor, strategic thinker, and collaborative leader with a track record of managing complex financial operations in independent schools, nonprofit organizations, or similarly mission-driven environments. They will bring expertise in budgeting, financial planning, reporting, and internal controls, coupled with the ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights that drive institutional priorities.
ABOUT BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY AND PERELMAN JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
With campuses in Melrose Park, Pennsylvania, and Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, Perelman Jewish Day School is a Jewish day school serving approximately 330 students from early childhood through middle school (PreK-5th grade). The school emphasizes a dual curriculum combining outstanding secular studies with Jewish learning, fostering both academic excellence and a strong sense of Jewish identity. Known for its inclusive community, innovative programs, and commitment to cultivating ethical, engaged, and curious learners, Perelman prepares students to thrive in both Jewish and broader civic life.
Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy is a pluralistic Jewish college-preparatory middle/upper school (6th-12th grade) located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, serving approximately 370 students from across the Greater Philadelphia region. The school combines a rigorous academic program with immersive Jewish learning, Hebrew language study, and deep engagement with Israel, cultivating students who are intellectually curious, ethically grounded, and connected to Jewish life and community. Barrack emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and service, preparing graduates for success at leading universities and for meaningful participation in both Jewish and global communities.
Barrack and Perelman have shared a strong and natural partnership for decades with many Perelman students matriculating to Barrack and continuing their Jewish educational journey. Generations of families have been a part of both communities, creating deep, enduring connections that have long linked the two schools in mission, values and community.
THE ROLE OF THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
The newly combined Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy and Perelman Jewish Day School seeks a strategically oriented, experienced, and collaborative financial leader to fill the key position of Chief Financial Officer. The CFO will work closely with the Head of School in support of the school’s mission, strategic, and financial plan. The CFO is responsible for the organization, management, and implementation of comprehensive business, financial, and investment initiatives for the school.
The CFO position is a unique and highly visible role that will be critical to the new PreK-12 Jewish community day school’s upward trajectory. The CFO will ensure that the school’s people and programs have ample resources at their disposal, that current and future projects are well-funded, and that both mission and financial sustainability are considered in all decisions.
The candidate of choice will be proficient with accounting systems and in effective data management and analysis to support innovation and efficiency across the organization. In addition, the successful candidate must have demonstrated leadership in implementing change, fostering a high level of teamwork and customer service while embracing technological advancements.
APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS
Evaluation of candidate materials will begin immediately with an expected start date in the summer months. Interested candidates can apply using the following Talent Profile link: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/22904.
Inquiries and nominations may be sent in confidence to Matthew Marsallo, Managing Director and Abby Kallin, Senior Search Associate at [email protected].