Controller

Job Title: Controller Location: The Covenant School, Charlottesville, Virginia Position Type: Full-Time – 12 Month Overview The Covenant School is seeking a dedicated and experienced Controller to oversee all accounting functions and financial reporting. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller will play a vital role in ensuring the school's financial integrity and operational efficiency. Key Responsibilities Maintain thorough knowledge of financial reporting and general ledger structure within a non-profit environment. Ensure timely completion of general ledger preparation and financial reporting activities. Oversee daily accounting tasks to accurately manage the school's general ledger. Guarantee timely monthly, quarterly, and year‑end financial closings, providing all relevant financial information. Conduct regular reviews of the general ledger to verify accuracy of postings. Prepare, present, and monitor both operating and capital budgets, including forecasting and variance analysis for the monthly finance committee meeting. Execute journal entries, ad hoc reporting, and account reconciliations as required. Manage fund accounting to ensure compliance with GAAP for donor commitments. Analyze departmental workflows to increase efficiency while upholding accuracy. Collaborate with other departments to verify transaction data and resolve discrepancies. Provide guidance on the handling of non‑routine financial transactions to staff. Preparation of audit work schedules and reconciliations for the annual audits, and coordinate with the retained CPA firm and CFO for a smooth audit process. Manage daily and weekly accounting activities, including Accounts Payable (AP), Accounts Receivable (AR), billing, cash management, payroll, and endowment accounts. Supervise business office/accounting staff and their development. Oversee human resources functions related to onboarding, benefits management, open enrollment, 401(k) plan, payroll, and compliance with employment laws. Work with team members to establish yearly performance goals and support their professional growth. Qualifications High commitment to The Covenant School's mission and initiatives. Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, with an emphasis in accounting; CPA strongly preferred. 5-7 years of prior experience in accounting/financial reporting; experience in a nonprofit organization is a plus. Strong professionalism in handling confidential information such as financial aid and salaries. Advanced skills in Excel and experience with Blackbaud or similar accounting software. Familiarity with computerized accounting systems, particularly Great Plains or Blackbaud, is advantageous. Excellent interpersonal skills with a focus on customer support and professionalism. Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a keen attention to detail. Ability to work independently while managing precise accounting operations. Capability to stay calm and adaptable under pressure. Diversity Statement The Covenant School encourages applicants from underrepresented groups to apply. We recognize that no candidate meets 100% of the qualifications, and we welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about our mission. #J-18808-Ljbffr