Position Title: Financial Controller 

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) 
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Location: Los Angeles, CA

Stephen Wise Temple and Schools 

Position Summary 

The Controller is a crucial member of the Finance and Accounting Team, responsible for overseeing the organization’s financial procedures and maintaining rigorous financial controls. This role includes preparing accurate and timely financial reports, managing compliance, and ensuring the integrity of the general ledger through structured processes and documentation. The Controller works closely with the CFO to support financial reporting requirements and ensure the financial health of the Temple and Schools. 

Key Responsibilities 

Financial Reporting and Compliance 

• Financial Close and Reporting: 

• Establish and oversee the monthly closing checklist, ensuring completion and documentation with necessary signoffs. 

• Prepare monthly financial statements for distribution. 

• Preparequarterly financial package for Financial Oversight Committee (FOC) and ensure documentation of quarterly “lock” on financial statements to support integrity and finality of reporting. 

• Maintain an accurate general ledger, overseeing journal entries, coding, and fund allocations to ensure compliance with GAAP and nonprofit fund accounting standards. 

• Regularly review and document general ledger entries to ensure all accounts are accurately reconciled and up to date. 

• Reconciliations and AR Management: 

• Review and approve monthly reconciliations for all key accounts, ensuring accuracy and alignment with policy. 

• Oversee the accounts receivable process and AR staff-person, regularly reviewing past-due accounts and aging reports to support timely collections and cash flow. 

• Documentation and Compliance: 

• Ensure all finance processes are documented and signed off by relevant parties, maintaining a record of all completed financial tasks. 

• Enforce internal controls to safeguard assets and uphold strong financial reporting in compliance with organizational policies. 

Audit and Compliance 

• Audit Management:  

• With CFO, coordinate the audit preparation with external auditors, with the eventual goal of taking over project management 

• Prepare PBC and Fieldwork materials as needed, ensuring efficient and timely audit completion.  

• Partner with the CFO to address any findings and implement recommendations. 

• Regulatory Compliance: 

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, supporting adherence to nonprofit-specific requirements. 

Support for Governance and Committee Meetings 

• Financial Oversight Committee (FOC) Support:  

• Document FOC meetings, including minutes, and maintain records of financial statement approvals and decisions. 

• Board and Committee Presentations:  

• Support the CFO by preparing reports and summarizing key financial information for presentations to the FOC and Board committees, as needed. 

Operational Accounting and Supervision 

• Oversee accounts payable staff-person and accounts receivable staff-person. 

• Cross-functionally manage payroll and program billing functions, ensuring timely processing and accuracy. 

• Manage and approve journal entries and revenue and expense coding for compliance and accuracy. 

• Review and approve reconciliations to maintain the accuracy and integrity of financial records. 

• Ensure consistency in fiscal policies and procedures, promoting best practices across all accounting functions. 

Team Leadership and Development 

• Supervise accounting staff, providing guidance, training, and professional development opportunities. 

• Conduct regular performance evaluations and support team members in setting and achieving goals. 

• Cross-train team members to ensure continuity and resilience in core financial functions. 

Special Projects and Additional Duties 

• Prepare reports and surveys for trade organizations (e.g., NAIS, NBOA) and other external reporting as required. 

• Support the CFO in providing relevant financial information for FOC and other board-related meetings. 

• Complete additional duties as assigned by the CFO to ensure efficient and compliant financial operations. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA required. 

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in nonprofit or fund accounting, with at least 3 years in a Controller position. Relevant experience in Independent Schools and/or Religious Institutions a plus. 

• Proficiency in accounting software (experience with QuickBooks Desktop and/or Online and FACTS Tuition Management a plus) and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel. 

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly. 

• Commitment to confidentiality and high ethical standards in managing sensitive financial information. 

Work Environment and Physical Requirements 

• Must be able to perform job duties in a standard office environment, including handling multiple tasks under deadlines. 

• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support school events and fiscal year-end close activities. 

Compensation Range: $120,000-$140,000 DOE

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to HR@wisela.org - please reference “CALISBOA Controller Candidate” in the email subject