Controller

The Controller provides strategic leadership and oversight of accounting, budgeting, payroll, financial reporting, and related financial operations. This position serves as a key strategic partner to executive leadership and is responsible for maintaining the accuracy, integrity, timeliness, and regulatory compliance of the organization’s financial activities. The Controller leads financial reporting and audit activities, including preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), while ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards, applicable laws, and regulatory requirements. This role also leads and develops the accounting and finance team, strengthens internal controls and financial processes, and provides financial analysis and insight to support organizational decision-making. Key Responsibilities Accounting, Budgeting & Financial Operations Lead general accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll, budgeting, and financial reporting. Ensure accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems comply with GAAP, GASB, and applicable regulatory requirements. Develop and maintain effective financial controls, policies, and procedures to safeguard organizational assets and ensure accurate reporting. Oversee revenue recognition, reconciliations, accounts receivable, payroll, and accounts payable processes. Manage the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely completion. Provide oversight of budget development, financial projections, and variance analysis. Identify and implement opportunities to improve accounting processes, controls, and operational efficiency. Financial Reporting, Audit & Compliance Lead preparation of financial reports, forecasts, trend analyses, quarterly and annual reporting packages, and the ACFR. Coordinate annual financial statement audits and internal control audits. Serve as a primary liaison with external and internal auditors. Maintain accounting policies and procedures in accordance with GAAP and GASB. Monitor changes in federal, state, and local financial regulations and ensure continued compliance. Maintain strong internal controls and recommend corrective actions or process improvements when necessary. Provide executive leadership with meaningful financial analysis and recommendations to support strategic planning and decision-making. Leadership & Team Development Lead, develop, and support a high-performing finance and accounting team. Establish clear responsibilities, performance expectations, and accountability across assigned functions. Coach and develop employees through ongoing feedback, training, performance management, and professional development. Organize and prioritize departmental workloads to ensure deadlines and organizational objectives are achieved. Oversee work schedules, performance evaluations, employee development, and departmental procedures. Support annual operating and capital budget planning. Strategic Financial Partnership Serve as a trusted financial advisor and strategic partner to executive leadership. Support the development and execution of short- and long-term financial and operational strategies. Partner with department leaders to evaluate and strengthen financial processes, systems, reporting, and internal controls. Analyze actual performance against budget, identify significant trends and variances, and provide actionable recommendations. Assist with developing and monitoring financial and operational Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Lead or support special projects and cross-functional initiatives. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field . Minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible accounting and financial management experience . Comprehensive experience with general accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, financial analysis, and internal controls. Experience preparing or overseeing an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) . Demonstrated working knowledge and application of GASB standards . Minimum of 3 years of management or supervisory experience . Experience within a governmental entity, public utility, water/wastewater utility, or other complex public-sector organization is preferred. Required Certification Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in good standing. Preferred Certifications One or more of the following is preferred: Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) or comparable state/local government finance credential Relevant governmental finance certification or professional development credential Other advanced certification in governmental accounting, public finance, financial management, or a closely related discipline This position is primarily performed in a professional office environment and may require extended periods working at a computer or workstation. The role requires effective verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple financial, operational, and organizational priorities. #J-18808-Ljbffr