Controller – Finance Team The First Academy

Schools United; Orlando, Northern (FL, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Schools United is seeking a Controller to lead the school’s accounting function, ensuring integrity, accuracy, and timely execution of financial accounting, reporting, and compliance.

The role manages budget support, tuition accounting, audits, cash management, and financial reporting, acting as a trusted advisor to the Senior Director of Finance and supporting the school's mission with sound fiscal management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration desirable.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee all accounting operations including general ledger, AP, AR, payroll, fixed assets, and cash management.
• Prepare timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for K-16 programs.
• Ensure GAAP and nonprofit standards compliance across the organization.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Financial analysis

Budgeting

Excel proficiency

ERP systems

Communication

Integrity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance/Business

CPA designation preferred

Master's degree desirable

Tools

Sage Intacct

Veracross

FACTS

Finalsite

Job description

The Controller leads the school’s accounting function and is responsible for the integrity, accuracy, and timely execution of all financial accounting, reporting, compliance with applicable accounting standards, and stewardship of school resources. This position manages day-to-day accounting functions, financial controls, budgeting support, tuition accounting, audit coordination, cash management, and financial reporting. The Controller serves as a key financial advisor to the Senior Director of Finance and supports the school’s mission through sound fiscal management.

Reports To: Senior Director of Finance

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Financial Management and Reporting

• Direct and oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and cash management.
• Prepare timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for all K-16 programs.
• Implement financial strategies that support the school’s mission, K-16 strategic plan, and long-term sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable nonprofit accounting standards.
• Maintain and reconcile all balance sheet and income statement accounts.
• Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard school assets.
• Monitor cash flow and liquidity requirements to support ongoing operations.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

• Assist school leadership in the preparation and management of the annual operating and capital budgets for K-16 programs
• Monitor budget-to-actual performance and provide variance analyses.
• Develop financial forecasts and projections to support strategic decision-making.
• Prepare financial reports and dashboards for senior leadership, finance committees, and the Board of Trustees.

Tuition and Student Billing Administration

• Assist Senior Director of Finance with oversight of tuition billing, collection processes, and financial aid accounting.
• Monitor accounts receivable and implement strategies to improve collection performance.
• Ensure accurate recording and reporting of tuition revenue and deferred revenue.

Audit and Compliance

• Coordinate and manage the annual K-16 external audit process
• Prepare schedules, workpapers, and supporting documentation for auditors.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.
• Support preparation of annual Form 990 and other required filings.
• Maintain financial records in accordance with record retention policies.

Endowment, Investments and Restricted Funds

• Track and report on endowment funds, restricted gifts, grants, and designated funds.
• Ensure donor restrictions are accurately recorded and monitored.
• Support investment reporting and reconciliation activities.

Professional Qualifications & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration desirable.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 – 5 years of progressively responsible accounting and finance experience.
• Experience in nonprofit, independent school, educational institution, or mission-driven organization highly preferred.
• Experience with annual audits and nonprofit financial reporting required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting principles.
• Understanding of tuition-based revenue models and educational finance.
• Advanced financial analysis, forecasting, and budgeting skills.
• Proficiency with accounting and ERP systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to present financial information clearly to non-financial audiences.
• High degree of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Experience working in a private, independent, or faith-based school environment.
• Familiarity with Sage Intacct, Veracross, FACTS, Finalsite, or other independent school management systems.
• Experience supporting boards, committees, and school leadership teams.