Controller

Overview Controller — Berrien Springs Public Schools, Berrien Springs, MI We inspire and foster an environment of collaboration, accountability, and innovation while maintaining financial stewardship and operational excellence to support high-quality learning experiences for students. Who We Are The Controller leads the district's day-to-day financial operations, supervises the central accounting team, and ensures that financial transactions, internal controls, and accounting workflows operate with accuracy and compliance. This role translates district-level financial strategy into daily systems that support fiscal integrity. What We Value Accuracy – Excellence in every entry and precision in every process. Integrity – Do what's right, even when no one is watching. Initiative – Proactive, problem-solving, and progress-driven. Accountability – Own responsibilities and deliver on commitments. Relationships – Trust, collaboration, and growth together. The Role The Controller leads the district's day-to-day accounting operations and supervises the central accounting team. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller ensures that financial transactions, internal controls, supervisory oversight, and accounting workflows operate with accuracy, compliance, and consistency. This role is the operational backbone of the finance function, translating district-level financial strategy into daily systems and disciplined processes that support fiscal integrity. The Controller works in close partnership with the CFO and the Director of FP&A to ensure the accounting function delivers reliable data, well-documented processes, and timely reporting. The role also supervises Accounts Payable and the Accounting Specialist, providing leadership, coaching, and performance management to the central accounting team. Competencies for Our Controller Operational Financial Leadership — Leads day-to-day operations of the accounting function (GL, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash receipts, journal entries) with accuracy, timeliness, and compliance. Team Supervision and Development — Supervises the Accounts Payable specialist and the Accounting Specialist; provides clear expectations, feedback, and coaching; establishes cadence and accountability. Internal Controls and Process Discipline — Designs and enforces internal controls; maintains procedures; identifies gaps and drives improvements. Compliance and Audit Coordination — Coordinates annual audits and ensures GAAP/GASB/LEA compliance; maintains audit-ready documentation and serves as primary point of contact for external auditors. Cross-Functional Collaboration — Partners with FP&A on close, budgeting, reconciliation; coordinates with HR and district operations to ensure clean handoffs and fiscal accountability. Decision Rights and Authority Stewardship — Operates within documented decision rights; escalates as needed; holds team accountable to discipline. Continuous Improvement — Stays informed on best practices and regulatory changes; designs sustainable finance operations without reliance on individuals. What We’ll Love About You You have five or more years of experience in financial management with experience leading or supervising accounting teams. A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is required or preferred. Experience in a public school district or governmental organization is valued. You have strong knowledge of GASB, fund accounting, and financial reporting requirements. You are proficient in relevant financial software and systems. You excel in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication. You are highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. You thrive in a collaborative work environment and are committed to maintaining financial integrity, building strong systems, and developing people. You believe that excellent financial operations are designed, not improvised, and you bring the discipline to build them. Why You Will Love This Role As Controller, you will lead the operational core of a finance function investing in stronger systems, clearer decision rights, and sustainable execution. You will work with professionals dedicated to student success, fiscal integrity, and operational excellence, contributing to durable accounting infrastructure for the district's growth. What You’ll Get Out of This Role A leadership role in a district that values financial stewardship, operational discipline, and system design. A comprehensive benefits package including merit pay, longevity benefits after five years, a retirement plan, health insurance, and life insurance. Structured professional development and coaching support aligned with the strategic leadership scope. A collaborative team that values your expertise, judgment, and contributions to durable systems. Classification: Administrative (Level 2) Position Title: Controller Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Salary: $75,000 - $90,000, based on experience Length of Contract: 12 months Location: Home office is Berrien Springs Public Schools Start Date: July 1, 2026 or as soon as available The Berrien Springs Public Schools Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic, in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr