Controller Accounting Operations

Overview

Hybrid
$140,000 - $160,000
Full Time
No Travel Required

Skills

Analytical thinking
building relationships
fostering teams
managing others
job knowledge
technical accounting expertise
multi-tasking
safety and security awareness
strong leadership
policy development
financial reporting
budget management
strategic planning
compliance with GASB
GAAP
and federal/state regulations
internal controls
audit coordination
financial data analysis
ERP systems proficiency
project management
presentation skills
customer service orientation
interpersonal communication
governmental accounting knowledge
succession planning
staff training
stakeholder communication
process improvement
financial systems implementation.

Job Details

Job Title: Controller Accounting Operations
Location: Downtown Philadelphia PA 19107 (onsite 2-3 days weekly initially)
Employment Type: Multi-year contract
Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Compensation: $140-160K
 
Position Overview
The Controller is responsible for the overall leadership and operations of the Accounting Operations Department, including General Accounting, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Revenue Accounting, Operating Grants, and Fixed Assets. This role directs the preparation of financial statements, ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements, develops internal controls, and oversees both internal and external audits. The Controller works closely with senior leadership and stakeholders from federal, state, and local funding agencies, providing strategic financial guidance while ensuring the accuracy and completeness of all reporting.
 
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Policy Development
  • Participate in the development of policies within the CFO s organization and interpret those policies throughout the department.
  • Develop objectives, policies, and procedures for approval by the CFO.
  • Interpret and administer programs and procedures in alignment with approved policies.
  • Perform special assignments at the request of the CFO.
  • Report on department performance to the CFO.
  • Develop a strong departmental organization staffed with trained personnel capable of executing departmental functions.
  • Ensure succession planning by developing and training replacements at all levels of the department.
Financial Oversight & Budget Management
  • Oversee day-to-day functions of the Accounting Operations Department.
  • Coordinate expense budget spending to maintain performance within budget.
  • Support the CFO in strategic planning and execution.
  • Communicate financial information to senior leadership and other stakeholders.
  • Analyze financial data to identify trends, potential risks, and opportunities for process improvement.
  • Anticipate and plan for implementation of new accounting pronouncements and regulatory changes.
Compliance, Reporting & Audit Management
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable accounting standards, including Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and federal and state regulations.
  • Oversee the preparation of accurate, timely financial statements for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Coordinate all internal and external financial audit activities.
  • Maintain strong internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Manage relationships with all federal, state, and local funding partners regarding financial reporting requirements.
Systems, Process Improvement & Special Initiatives
  • Collaborate with project managers as a subject matter expert in implementing new financial systems.
  • Support initiatives requiring financial, statistical, and analytical data-driven responses.
Safety & Security
  • Comply with all departmental safety and security policies and applicable job safety responsibilities.
  • Report any safety concerns, compromises, or hazards affecting operations, the public, or employees.
  • Promote a culture of safety for all staff.
 
Qualifications & Experience
Required
  • Bachelor s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related business field.
  • Minimum of 15 years of progressive, relevant accounting/finance experience, including supervisory or managerial roles.
  • Proven experience in a mid-to-large sized organization.
  • Demonstrated project management skills.
  • Advanced proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and other financial technology platforms.
  • Strong presentation skills.
  • Excellent customer service orientation and interpersonal skills.
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage with diverse internal and external audiences.
Preferred
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or equivalent credential.
  • Governmental accounting knowledge.
 
Core Competencies
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Building Relationships
  • Fostering Teams / Managing Others
  • Job Knowledge / Technical Expertise
  • Multi-Tasking
  • Safety & Security Awareness
  • Strong Leadership Qualities
 
 
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