Controller

Essential Job Function and Definition: 

Assist the coordinator of finance in managing the day-to-day processes within the finance department, specifically focusing on the accounting, accounts payable and payroll teams, working toward continuous development of sound accounting processes to ensure alignment with industry standards and progress toward efficient use of district resources.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Select, Train and Supervise Accounting, Accounts Payable, and Payroll staff  

• Collaborate on the selection of, training and supervision of direct and indirect reports to ensure accuracy of data and adherence to processing expectations 
• Assign projects and direct staff to ensure compliance and accuracy 
• Work with staff to ensure high level of customer service 
• Provide timely guidance and support to direct reports 
• Serve as backup for accounts payable supervisor and payroll supervisor.

Finance and General Ledger

• Manage and oversee the daily operations of the accounting, accounts payable and payroll teams within the finance department. 
• Maintain a thorough understanding of the financial reporting and general ledger structure 
• Develop and implement systems for collecting, analyzing, reconciling and reporting financial information to ensure financial data integrity. 
• Establish and implement proper accounting methods and advise the coordinator of finance on needed policy improvements 
• Review reconciliations to ensure that they are prepared accurately and timely, following-up on any unusual items. 
• Develop training materials and provide training and oversight to school and departmental staff to ensure understanding and use of proper accounting methods, policies and principles

Audit

• Coordinate the preparation and execution of the district’s annual audit. Serve as primary point of contact for the audit, delegating the preparation of work papers as needed, and working with staff and auditors to ensure a seamless audit process 
• Prepare or review audit workpapers related to areas of responsibilities. Compile data pertinent to the statistical section of the CAFR 
• Collaborate with the coordinator of finance in the review of the audit reports 
• Facilitate the preparation of the district’s comprehensive annual financial report

Financial Data Reporting

• Maintain the district’s account code structure to ensure compliance with state (UFARS) and federal reporting requirements 
• Responsible for UFARS training and update for program administrators and support staff 
• Review and approve general ledger account changes submitted by district administrators

Cash Management

• Facilitate the investments of district operating funds to maximize earnings while protecting the principal, as allowed in state statutes 
• Oversee cash flow projections for investment and operating funds and make appropriate transfers. 
• Review bank charges as submitted by the district’s official depository of funds to ensure accuracy 
• Review cash receipts as needed to ensure accuracy in financial reporting 
• Oversee the district’s request for proposals process for banking services and the analysis of proposals received; once every 5 years.

Others

• Work with other finance department team members to development and conduct finance department training programs for new and current district administrative and support staff. 
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required

Education/Experience

• Four-year degree in accounting, business or related field (Business Administration, Accounting/Finance, Management Information Systems). 
• 5 years of progressive automated accounting systems management experience. 
• 3 years minimum supervisory experience. 
• School district accounting experience, experience with Skyward Q applications preferred. 
• CPA certification preferred.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong project and system management skills. 
• Extensive knowledge and experience in the use and design of spreadsheets and databases. 
• Microsoft Excel, Word and Access. 
• Principles, practices and terminology used in payroll and financial recordkeeping and reporting. 
• Up to date knowledge of laws, rules and regulations applicable to school districts and accounting practices. 
• Strong skills in organization, creative thought, initiative, systems thinking and problem solving.

Interpersonal Skills

• Strong supervisory skills. 
• Strong team and customer service orientation. 
• Demonstration of excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• Ability to manage, prioritize and complete work assignments from multiple sources.