Controller

Position Type: Administration/Director Date Posted: 5/12/2025 Location: District Office Date Available: Until Filled Closing Date: Until Filled Additional Information: Show/Hide JOB TITLE: Controller LOCATION: Houston, Texas REPORTS TO: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)cio FLSA STATUS: Exempt EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-Time KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Financial Oversight & Reporting * Manage all accounting operations including general ledger, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and bank reconciliations.

* Oversee the organization's accounting systems to ensure accurate and timely recording of financial transactions.

Ensure the maintenance and updating of accounting systems to support efficient financial operations.

* Manage the payroll systems to ensure timely and accurate processing of employee salaries, benefits, and deductions.

Ensure compliance with relevant labor laws and regulations.

* Develop, implement, and monitor fiscal policies and procedures to ensure financial compliance and operational efficiency.

Regularly review and update policies to reflect changes in regulations and best practices.

* Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and non-profit accounting standards.

* Maintain accurate fund accounting for both unrestricted and restricted funds, including federal and state education grants.

Budgeting & Forecasting * Assist in the preparation and management of the annual budget.

Monitor budget performance and provide recommendations for adjustments to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

* Assist in the preparation of financial forecasts and variance analysis to support data-driven decision-making.

* Collaborate with school leaders and department heads to align financial planning with academic and operational goals.

Compliance & Audit * Ensure compliance with TEA (Texas Education Agency), federal grant requirements (e.g., ESSA, IDEA), and non-profit financial regulations.

* Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.

* Maintain and enhance internal controls and financial policies.

Grant & Fund Management * Track and report on all grant expenditures, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with funding requirements.

* Support grant proposal development with financial data and budget narratives.

Leadership & Collaboration * Supervise accounting staff and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

* Partner with the CFO and senior leadership to support strategic initiatives and long-term financial planning.

* Provide financial training and support to school and program leaders.

QUALIFICATIONS: * CPA with 3 years of experience as a controller required.

* Minimum 5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in a non-profit or charter school environment.

* Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and compliance with federal and state education funding.

* Public accounting background and/or non-profit accounting background preferred * 5 years of team management experience preferred * Experience with federal grants required * Comfort working in a fast-paced, non-profit environment * Proficiency in financial software (e.g., Ascender, QuickBooks, Blackbaud, or similar ERP systems). * Excellent analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

* Commitment to the mission of educational equity and community empowerment.

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES: * Experience with Texas charter school finance and TEA compliance.

* Familiarity with federal grants such as Title I, Title III, and IDEA.