Controller (Independent School)

PKF O'Connor Davies TalentConnect•New York, NY

11h•Onsite

About The Position

Our client, a independent school in NYC, is seeking a Controller to join their team. The controller reports to the chief operating officer and works in close relationship with the human resources manager, accounts payable and student billing manager, and the senior accountant. The controller’s primary functions are to manage the general ledger, supervise accounts payable, manage cash flow, implement effective financial control processes, and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.

Requirements

Demonstrated commitment to anti-bias education and social justice
Bachelor’s degree in accounting
Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in non-profit accounting
Experience with Blackbaud Financial Edge and Google Workspace
Experience with data import/export and file management
Strong knowledge of accounting principles and audit procedures
Solid understanding of non-profit operations and multi-year gift accounting
Experience in processing and evaluating confidential financial records
Experience developing accurate, timely, and useful financial reports
Able to identify and employ appropriate technology across the responsibilities of the position
Strong communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate accounting, financial, and service issues that may be complex in nature.
Maintains open communication channels with administrators, faculty, staff, and customers at the School
Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to consider a broad range of internal and external factors when solving problems. Grasps complexities and perceives relationships among different problems or issues
Superior time management and organizational skills, and able to manage many projects simultaneously while adhering to deadlines and commitments. Respected for the ability to find or make time to get things done. Creates action plans to meet goals and periodically reviews progress toward goals
Works collaboratively and effectively with immediate co-workers, and provides excellent customer service to all school divisions, clients, and vendors

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in accounting or CPA
Experience in non-profit accounting, preferably within an independent school or other educational institution
Proficient with Mac platforms; comfortable with technology or demonstrated ability to learn quickly
Commitment to student life

Responsibilities

Responsible for monthly accounting close processes, including, but not limited to, reconciling bank accounts, investment accounts, liability accounts, and recording month-end journal entries
Records and reconciles gifts and pledges from the advancement office
Files sales and use tax reports, and prepares Form 1099 for vendors
Manages the annual financial audit, retirement plan audit, and Form 990 preparation
Ensures compliance with GAAP and applicable non-profit accounting standards
Records all transactions related to debt payments
Prepares schedules and financial statements as needed for the annual audit; serves as the primary liaison with external auditors
Reconciles accounts receivable from auxiliary programs and other income sources
Prepares and verifies payroll journal entries
Supports the human resources manager and is the primary backup to process semi-monthly payroll
Manages banking relationships for the operating funds and credit cards
Assists the chief operating officer in preparing and monitoring departmental budgets
Prepares data for periodic surveys for the school’s trade organizations (i.e., NYSAIS, NAIS, NBOA)
Maintains fixed asset ledgers, capitalized acquisitions, recording depreciation and disposals
Leads the design and/or implementation of business office projects, such as developing and documenting financial processes and procedures