Controller/Accounting Manager

Controller / Accounting Manager

St. Luke's United Methodist Church is seeking a highly skilled and purpose-driven Controller / Accounting Manager to steward the financial operations of our church and affiliated ministries. This is more than an accounting role—it's an opportunity to use your expertise to support a vibrant, growing faith community and the ministries that serve it.

Reporting to the Director of Finance and Administration, this role plays a critical leadership function in ensuring financial integrity, operational excellence, and wise stewardship of resources that directly impact lives.

Salary: $90,000 - $100,000

Lead Core Accounting Operations

• Own and execute the full month-end close process across multiple entities
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
• Maintain the general ledger, including journal entries and reconciliations
• Ensure compliance with GAAP standards and internal policies
• Manage fixed assets, allocations, and inter company transactions

Oversee A/P & Payroll Functions

• Supervise Accounts Payable and Payroll processes with strong internal controls
• Review invoices, payroll, and credit card transactions for accuracy and compliance
• Manage ACH payments, wire transfers, and Positive Pay processes
• Oversee 1099 preparation and IRS compliance
• Lead and develop A/P and Payroll team members

Own the Audit Process

• Serve as the primary contact for external auditors
• Lead the full audit lifecycle across church and foundation entities
• Prepare key audit schedules, documentation, and financial statements
• Coordinate governance and compliance materials

Drive Budgeting & Financial Strategy

• Lead the annual budget process from planning through presentation
• Partner with ministry leaders on budget-to-actual analysis
• Provide insights and reporting to committees and leadership

Support Governance & Compliance

• Maintain financial policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Assist with Form 990 preparation for foundation entities
• Participate in committees and boards as a financial advisor

Requirements

Experience & Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance (required)
• CPA strongly preferred
• 7+ years of accounting/finance experience
• 3–5 years of leadership or supervisory experience
• Nonprofit or church accounting experience (highly preferred)

Technical Skills

• Advanced Excel skills (Pivot Tables required)
• Experience with systems like Sage Intacct, Paylocity, Procare, or The Rock (preferred)

Core Strengths

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent communicator—able to translate financial data into clear insights
• Strategic thinker with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
• High integrity and commitment to accountability

Faith & Culture Fit

• A committed follower of Jesus aligned with the mission of St. Luke's
• Comfortable integrating faith and work in a ministry environment
• Collaborative, diplomatic, and steady under pressure