Controller

RePublic Schools; United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Leadership development programs

Job summary

An educational nonprofit organization in the United States is seeking a Controller to oversee its financial operations and ensure long-term financial health. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting and CPA license, with at least three years of experience in a senior financial role. Responsibilities include managing financial strategies, compliance with regulations, and collaboration with senior management. This role offers a competitive salary and benefits, including professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a senior financial role within nonprofit or education setting.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting practices and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in accounting software and various tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial operations and ensure long-term financial health.
• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Manage compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Financial analysis

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Microsoft Excel

Written communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license

Tools

Intacct

Bill.com

Microsoft Office Suite

Google Drive

Job description

Join to apply for the Controller role at RePublic Schools

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

Position Type: Full-time

Who We Are

Serving more than 2,900 scholars in seven schools across two cities; Jackson, Mississippi and Nashville, Tennessee, RePublic Schools is the only school network solely dedicated to reimagining public education in the South.

Part of reimagining education in the South means that we confront the historic inequities that work against our scholars and actively work to dismantle those inequities. We are doing this by intentionally creating environments that embrace, honor, and celebrate our scholars’ identities and experiences, as well as the identities and experiences of every member of our community.

At RePublic, we cultivate a cohesive community of families, staff, and scholars committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure our scholars succeed. We are looking for a dynamic Payroll & Benefits Manager who shares our unwavering belief that all children can achieve at high levels and change the world. Sound like you?

What You’ll Do

The Controller is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the organization, ensuring long‑term financial health, and providing strategic financial guidance to senior management and stakeholders. This role involves developing and implementing financial strategies, managing budgets, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Controller will work closely with cross‑functional teams to optimize financial performance, support decision‑making, and ensure the organization’s financial objectives align with its overall goals. Strong leadership, financial expertise, and a strategic mindset are key to success in this position.

Financial Management & Strategy

• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with Republic’s strategic priorities.
• Lead the budgeting and forecasting process for the network, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and effective allocation of resources.
• Monitor financial performance and provide recommendations to senior leadership for improving financial results and achieving operational goals.
• Advise the CFO and senior leadership team on key financial decisions, strategic planning, and long‑term financial sustainability.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements to school leadership, senior leadership, and the Board of Directors.
• Conduct detailed financial analysis and provide actionable insights on variances, trends, and operational efficiencies.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with applicable standards.
• Manage cash flow to ensure sufficient liquidity and monitor the network’s financial position.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including audit and reporting filings.
• Oversee preparation for internal and external audits, managing audit relationships, and ensuring timely resolution of any findings.
• Monitor changes in regulations and ensure compliance with all applicable financial and tax laws.
• Manage financial aspects of grants, including budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
• Develop and maintain relationships with funding agencies, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Oversee the preparation of grant applications and ensure proper documentation of expenditures and outcomes.
• Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and collaboration.
• Provide training and support for staff on financial processes and systems to ensure understanding and compliance with financial policies.
• Evaluate and enhance financial systems and processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial systems.
• Evaluate and select financial tools and systems to improve reporting and operational efficiency.
• Lead the effort to integrate financial systems with other organizational platforms for improved data flow and decision‑making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field required.
• Candidate must hold a valid Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
• At least 3 years of experience in a senior financial role within a nonprofit or education setting.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting practices, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance (e.g., GAAP, FASB, government funding requirements).
• Proficiency in accounting software (Intacct preferred), accounts payable platforms (Bill.com preferred), Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word), and Google Drive.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a team, while managing multiple financial priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to non‑financial stakeholders.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality.

Why You’ll Love Us

• Competitive salary aligned with experience and local district benchmarks.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including family planning benefits, mental health support, and paid time off.
• Professional Development: Access to leadership development programs and career advancement opportunities.