Controller

Southern Education Foundation

  • Atlanta, GA
  • $110,000 per year
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 30 days ago
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
  • Wellness resources
ControllerSouthern Education Foundation, Inc. (SEF), located in Atlanta, Georgia seeks an outstanding candidate to fill our Controller position. Since 1867, the mission of the Southern Education Foundation has been to advance equitable education practices and policies in the South through research, advocacy, and leadership development to help every student attain a high-quality education that propels them toward the opportunity-rich life they deserve.The candidate will be someone committed to the belief that education is the vehicle by which all students have access and opportunities for fair chances to develop their talents and attain school success. The Controller should possess a solid understanding of all aspects of fund accounting and particularly restricted funds.The Controller reports to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). To learn more, please visit .The Opportunity:The Southern Education Foundation, Inc. is hiring a Controller to support the overall SEF financial operations. The successful candidate will engage collaboratively across all levels and functional areas within SEF. This professional will assist in overseeing accounting operations and the financial affairs of the organization. The ideal candidate should be self-driven, eager to deepen their understanding of SEF’s operational strategies, and committed to fostering relationships with donors and partners who support the work and mission.TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Manage all aspects of accounting, including the preparation of financial statements, management of the general ledger, account reconciliations, payroll processing, accounts payable and receivable, budgeting, tax compliance, and revenue recognition.
  • Maintain and enforce all accounting policies and procedures.
  • Keep systemic records of all financial statements, transactions, and payments in compliance with retention policy.
  • Ensure payroll is processed accurately and punctually.
  • Monitor cash flow, prepare cash forecasts, and manage investment balances.
  • Compile monthly and annual financial reports and continuously review budgets and forecasts.
  • Maintain and update the chart of accounts.
  • Provide detailed monthly budget reports, analyzing and addressing variances.
  • Offer strategic financial advice and analyses regarding capital investments, pricing strategies, contract negotiations, significant expenditures, benchmarks, and other critical financial matters in collaboration with management and
the CFO. * Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal reporting requirements and tax filings.
  • Safeguard the accuracy and integrity of financial data within the accounting software system.
  • Direct and ensure grants are recorded in accordance with appropriate revenue recognition standards.
  • Assist the CFO in identifying and reporting emerging financial trends.
  • Manage the preparation of PBC audit schedules and annual financial audit reports, including federal audits.
  • Regularly review financial operations for opportunities to enhance automation and operational efficiency, thereby improving financial reporting processes.
  • Performs additional controller duties as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor’s degree required in accounting, finance, or business administration with an emphasis in accounting.
  • Possess five to seven years of progressive accounting work experience within the nonprofit sector.
  • Certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) license is preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Exceptional knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Advanced comprehension of financial transactions and accounting best practices, encompassing relevant laws, standards, and both state/national regulations.
  • Strong analytical skills to develop, assess, and implement process enhancements or strategic recommendations.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively with senior executives and team members, as well as mentor/lead other team members.
  • Excellent proficiency in applications, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity and implementation with MIP Fund Accounting (Abila), Sage, or other fund accounting software is an asset.
  • Highly organized with strict attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain objective, focused, and composed under pressure.
  • Commitment to cost containment.
  • Consistently demonstrates ethical conduct and integrity.
  • Committed to advancing equity and excellence in educational opportunities for low-income students in the South.
This is a full-time position working Monday – Friday. Compensation for this role begins at $110,000 and is commensurate with experience including a competitive benefits package. SEF is an Atlanta-based organization. Presently, SEF is currently working a hybrid work schedule where employees work remotely and, in the office, based on the needs of the business. The expectation, however, is that employees are available to easily report to the office as needed.Interested candidates should submit: 1) a letter of interest 2) a current resume 3) names and contact information of three professional references to with Controller in the subject line of the email. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.The Southern Education Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.Flexible work from home options available.

Southern Education Foundation