Controller

Saint Paul Port Authority; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Saint Paul Port Authority is seeking a Controller to lead the accounting and finance functions, reporting to the CFO. You will oversee financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls across nonprofit and for-profit entities tied to city projects.

Responsibilities include budgeting, forecasting, debt support, audits, treasury operations, and driving system improvements while developing a high-performing accounting team to support Saint Paul’s public finance goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting.
• 5+ years experience in banking, public finance, or government/non-profit sector accounting.
• Strong understanding of accounting standards and internal controls.

Responsibilities

• Lead the accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and internal control functions for the organization and related non-profit and for-profit entities.
• Conduct annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning activities.
• Oversee TIF administration and support debt management, and public finance compliance.
• Manage external audits, grant accounting, and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Support treasury operations, including cash management, banking, and investments.
• Drive financial systems improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Prepare financial reports and recommendations for executive leadership and the Board.
• Lead and develop accounting staff and oversee daily accounting operations.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Public finance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting

Job description

The Saint Paul Port Authority is an economic engine for Saint Paul and the entire state of Minnesota. We redevelop underused land into thriving business centers to bring jobs and tax base to Saint Paul; offer finance tools to help Minnesota companies become more energy efficient and resilient; and manage the Saint Paul Harbor on the Mississippi River, providing jobs and connecting our region to a global marketplace.

The Position

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced accounting professional to join the Saint Paul Port Authority finance team. As the Controller, reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) , you will have the opportunity to oversee the financial side of a wide range of high-profile projects across the City of Saint Paul. In addition to day-to-day requirements, you will be instrumental in helping us meet our strategic goals and execution of our mission.

You will be successful in this role by demonstrating initiative, sound judgment, and a steady leadership presence. You’re a problem‑solver who leads by example, sets clear expectations, and follows through. You bring a strong understanding of public finance and can build productive relationships with internal teams, partners, and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and internal control functions for the organization and related non-profit and for-profit entities.
• Conduct annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning activities.
• Oversee TIF administration and support debt management, and public finance compliance.
• Manage external audits, grant accounting, and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Support treasury operations, including cash management, banking, and investments.
• Drive financial systems improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Prepare financial reports and recommendations for executive leadership and the Board.

Lead and develop accounting staff and oversee daily accounting operations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting
• 5+ experience with banking, public finance, or government/non-profit sector accounting