Controller

Houston ISD•Houston, TX

26d•$190,000 - $235,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Controller directs the daily operations of the Accounting Department, overseeing general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, and cash management. This role is responsible for the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) in accordance with GAAP and GASB standards, and ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local financial reporting requirements, including Texas Education Agency (TEA) regulations. The Controller develops and implements internal controls, coordinates external financial audits, and collaborates with other financial teams to ensure consistency across systems. This position also reviews and updates accounting policies, serves as a liaison with external auditors and regulatory agencies, provides financial analysis to leadership, and supervises and develops the Controller's Office staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience, including supervisory responsibilities.
Strong knowledge of GAAP, GASB, and fund accounting.
Demonstrated leadership in managing complex financial operations in a large organization.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in financial systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Commitment to integrity, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

CPA license strongly preferred.
Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration preferred.
Experience in public sector or school district finance preferred.

Responsibilities

Direct the daily operations of the Accounting Department, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, and cash management
Oversee preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) in accordance with GAAP and GASB standards. Responsible for submitting the ACFR, GFOA, and ASBO for review.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local financial reporting requirements, including Texas Education Agency (TEA) regulations.
Develop, implement, and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard District assets and ensure accuracy of financial records.
Coordinate and manage all external financial audits, including the annual independent audit and grant-specific audits.
Collaborate with Budget, Treasury, Grants, and Procurement teams to ensure consistency and accuracy across financial systems.
Review and update accounting policies and procedures in alignment with best practices and regulatory changes.
Serve as a key liaison with external auditors, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders.
Provide financial analysis and guidance to support leadership decisions and initiatives.
Supervise and develop Controller’s Office staff, ensuring appropriate training, performance evaluations, and professional growth.