AVP, Controller

Solvay Bank•City of Syracuse, NY

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Controller to lead our accounting operations and financial reporting functions. This role is critical to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of the bank’s financial information. The Controller will work closely with senior leadership, auditors, and regulators while managing a high-performing accounting team. The successful candidate will have strong organizational skills, exceptional attention to detail, with the ability to prioritize workload. They will have a graduate degree in Accounting or Finance. A minimum of 10 years’ progressive experience required. Prior financial institution experience and CPA strongly preferred. The Controller is responsible for overseeing the bank’s accounting operations, financial reporting, forecasting, and internal control environment. This role ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial data, compliance with GAAP and banking regulations, along with the timely completion of all financial and regulatory reporting. The Controller plays a critical role in safeguarding assets, supporting audits, and maintaining strong internal controls.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (required)
10+ years’ experience
Prior experience managing audits and regulatory reporting
Strong knowledge of GAAP and bank-specific accounting practices
Familiarity with regulatory reporting requirements (e.g., Call Reports)
Understanding of CECL and allowance for credit losses
High attention to detail and accuracy
Strong leadership and team management skills
Excellent organizational and time management abilities
Proficiency in accounting systems and Microsoft Excel
May require extended hours during month-end close, audits, and regulatory filing periods
Requires responsiveness to regulatory deadlines, audits, and Board reporting cycles

Nice To Haves

CPA and banking experience strongly preferred
Experience in a community or regional bank
Familiarity with core banking systems and general ledger platforms
Exposure to investment and treasury accounting
Experience supporting ALCO, Board and/or finance committees

Responsibilities

Oversee the preparation and narrative of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
Manage the general ledger, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and proper classification of transactions
Lead the month-end and year-end close processes, including reconciliations and journal entries
Ensure timely and accurate internal financial reporting to senior leadership
Oversee preparation and submission of all regulatory filings, including Call Reports
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and reporting standards
Maintain strong documentation and audit trails for all filings
Develop, implement, and maintain a robust system of internal controls
Ensure compliance with FDIC and other regulatory expectations
Monitor adherence to accounting policies and procedures
Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks, including fraud monitoring and prevention
Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors, internal auditors, and regulatory examiners
Coordinate audits and examinations, ensuring timely responses and resolution of findings
Implement corrective actions and strengthen control deficiencies
Oversee accounting for loans, deposits, investments, and fixed assets
Ensure proper accounting for interest income/expense, loan loss provisions, and fee income
Partner with credit and finance teams on allowance methodologies, including CECL
Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team
Manage to performance expectations and provide ongoing coaching
Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement