Controller

THE OPEN WINDOW SCHOOL • Bellevue, WA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Controller is an integral member of the Business Office team, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day financial operations of the School. This role ensures the integrity of financial reporting, maintains strong internal controls, and aligns systems and policies with regulatory requirements and best practices. They provide high-level supervision, mentorship, and strategic direction across core finance functions. The Controller plays a key role in sustaining a strong collaborative Business Office team, is a visible and engaged member of the broader school community, and advances the School’s mission through thoughtful, strategic financial stewardship. Working collaboratively across the community—including faculty, staff, trustees, and parents—the Controller builds strong relationships and serves as a trusted financial partner.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree and/or 7+ years finance related experience.
• Excellent cultural competency, willing, and able to work with multiple groups of people from diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain cordial, flexible, and professional relationships with colleagues and parents.
• Excellent written and verbal skills demonstrated via phone, email, and in-person conversations.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently, collegially, and collaboratively.
• Positive team member.
• Strong computer skills and proficient user of Microsoft Office, specifically Excel, as well as a willingness to learn new technology as needed.
• Supports our mission statement to nurture and inspire students of high intellectual potential.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in non-profit fund accounting is a plus.
• Experience in an educational setting is a plus.
• CPA or CMA certification is a plus.
• Experience in managing/coordinating the financial aid process is a plus.
• Experience with Blackbaud software (FENXT, RENXT, BBTM) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions, including accounts payable/receivable, cash management, and reconciliations.
• Ensure an accurate monthly close process in accordance with GAAP rules.
• Maintain the general ledger system and database.
• Engage with accounting and business system(s) vendor(s) on the review and analysis of system issues, system improvements, implementation of new software releases, and training opportunities for Business Office staff.
• Supervise, mentor, and support the accounting team member, fostering accountability and professional growth.
• Oversee tuition management and family billing.
• Partner with the Director of HR in areas where the team’s work intersects, including monthly payroll submission, budgeting, expense reimbursements, and compliance tasks.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and service-oriented finance function.
• Ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and applicable nonprofit accounting standards.
• Oversee Fixed Asset control, accounting and management.
• In consultation with the DFO, lead the development and maintain accounting policies & procedures and ensure that proper internal accounting controls are in place and adhered to.
• Management of various state, federal, and other regulatory compliance requirements, including Property Tax Exemption, City of Bellevue enrollment letter, B&O tax, and others.
• Partner in the oversight of Business Office related records retention.
• Provide oversight of annual audit activities (schedule preparation, responding to inquiries, etc.) including the preparation of the annual Form 990 and coordinating the annual engagement with external auditors.
• Administer the Financial Aid application process with the collection of required information, analysis preparation and coordination of the approval and notification of financial aid awards.
• Oversee and guide the modeling and preparation of the annual operating budget, working closely with the DFO and Business Office Officers.
• Partner with the Director of Auxiliary Programs to review budgeting, costing, and reporting for Auxiliary and Summer programs.
• Prepare and analyze quarterly, and annual financial reports including the analysis and monitoring of budget variances.
• Oversee the preparation of monthly budget reports for all departments and assist department budget managers in meeting operational budget goals and objectives.
• Contribute to a strong, collaborative, and service-oriented Business Office team.
• Partner effectively with colleagues across the school to support operational and strategic priorities.
• Engage as an active, positive member of the school community, building strong working relationships.
• Other duties as needed and assigned.

Benefits

• Sick leave
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (paid 100% for employee only coverage)
• Employer paid Health Reimbursement Account of $1,750 per plan year
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 403(b) Retirement Account, Pre-tax & Roth Options (eligible for 3% employer contribution and an up to 3% employer match after one year of service)
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Professional development and training opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager