Controller-Polynesian Voyaging Society

Job Description

The Polynesian Voyaging Society perpetuates voyaging and wayfinding traditions to ignite the light of ancestral knowledge and forge values-aligned, inclusive relationships that catalyze policies and practices to aloha honua.

Position Summary & Role

The Controller will have overall responsibility for the strategic planning, implementation, 

managing and running of all finance activities of Polynesian Voyaging Society. These tasks include 

business financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and risk management.

Responsible for all accounting functions such as Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, 

and reconciliation and cash control.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities Strategy, Planning and Management

● Support and advise the executive leadership team.

● Maintain access and maintenance of accounting software.

● Assess and evaluate financial performance of the organization regarding long-term operational 

goals, budgets and forecasts. Provide insight and recommendations to both short-term and long-term 

growth plans of organizations.

● Create and establish yearly financial objectives that align with the organization’s plan for 

growth and expansion.

● Select and engage consultants, auditors and investors.

● Implement policies and procedures as deemed appropriate by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and 

Board of Directors.

Financial Analysis, Budgeting and Forecasting

● Prepare and present quarterly financial budget and actual reports, including profit and loss, 

balance sheet, income statement and cash flow.

● Provide financial information related to grants/restricted funds.

● Develop and manage reports to track and monitor in-kind services. Coordinate with other 

departments to ensure reports are updated with accurate information. On a quarterly basis update 

accounting software with in-kind information.

● Review and analyze monthly financial results and provide recommendations.

● Develop and maintain monthly operating budget and annual organizational budget for organization 

and programs.

● Manage financial planning and analysis.

● Participate in conference calls with office staff and executive leadership.

Accounting, General Ledger, Administration and Operations

● Review and ensure application of appropriate internal controls, SOC compliance and financial 

procedures.

● Ensure timeliness and accuracy of financial management reporting data for federal funders, 

foundations, investors and organization’s Board of Directors.

● Provide financial planning for all grants and contracts proposals.

● Prepare and communicate weekly, monthly, and annual financial statements.

● Prepare and timely file all local, state and federal tax returns.

● Function as key point of contact for external auditors. Manage, prepare and support all external 

audits.

● Prepare bimonthly payroll with external payroll company. Monitor employee vacation accrual rates 

and balances.

● Collaborate with advancement team to support compliant grant implementation and reporting, and 

accounts receivable.

Financial Management

● Manage and maintain cash flow planning process and ensure funds availability.

● Manage and maintain cash, investments, and asset management.

● Maintain outstanding banking relationships and strategic alliances with vendors and investment 

partners.

● Maintain access to regulatory certificates, such as tax clearances and certificates of insurance.

Cash Management

● Manage and maintain cash and accounts payable, ensure checks are signed, oversee wires and ACH 

payments.

● Manage and maintain all receivables and provide guidance relating to the collection of funds.

Other tasks as needed.

Desired Skills, Qualities and Experience

The Controller must have at least three years experience in accounting and/or finance-related 

positions. Desired skills and qualities include proficiency with:

● Quickbooks Online

● Microsoft Office, especially Excel

● Google Workspace

● Adobe

● Policy writing

Respect for and basic understanding of traditional Pacific seafaring and a firm grasp of “waʻa 

culture” in the Pacific seafaring community is preferred.

Relationships

The Controller reports to the CEO. The Controller works closely with the Finance Committee, other 

members of the Board, as well as all employees.