Cardinal Gibbons High School, a faith-filled and mission-driven Catholic high school in Raleigh, North Carolina, serving grades 9-12, seeks an experienced Controller. This individual is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the school, ensuring financial integrity, and maintaining accurate records in compliance with accounting principles and legal regulations. The Controller will work closely with the CFO and other administrative leaders to support the financial health and operational efficiency of the school.
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting and Analysis:
Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Lead month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting.
Provide detailed financial analysis and supplemental reports to explain variances vs budget and forecast to the CFO and other school leadership.
Monitor and analyze the school’s financial performance, identifying trends and recommending opportunities for improvement.
Budgeting and Forecasting:
Lead the school’s annual budgeting process, collaborating with department heads and senior leadership to create accurate and realistic budgets.
Prepare financial forecasts and assist in planning for upcoming fiscal years, considering revenue, expenses, capital projects, and strategic goals.
Internal Controls and Compliance:
Develop and maintain internal control policies and procedures to ensure financial accuracy and protect company assets.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local tax regulations, as well as internal policies and procedures.
Coordinate and lead the annual audit process, working with external auditors to ensure successful completion and address any findings.
Oversee tax compliance, including income tax returns, sales tax, and other regulatory reporting.
Cash Flow and Treasury Management:
Monitor cash flow to ensure financial obligations are met in a timely manner.
Manage the school’s bank accounts, investments, and other financial instruments.
Accounting Operations:
Oversee all accounting operations including billing, accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, revenue recognition, and payroll journal entries.
Own accounting/ERP and financial systems and software and recommend changes or updates and enhance accordingly.
Partner with business office staff, ensuring accurate and timely processing of financial transactions.
Grant and Fund Management:
Assist in the management of restricted funds, grants, and donations, ensuring proper accounting and reporting.
Support fundraising and grant management teams by tracking funds and providing financial reports on donations and expenditures.
Collaboration and Communication:
Work closely with all departments to support the school’s operational needs, providing guidance and training to staff as needed.
Communicate financial results and provide recommendations for financial management improvements to senior leadership.
Identify, lead, and/or participate in strategic initiatives that continuously drive efficiencies and effectiveness in support of the school’s mission.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
CPA certification
7+ years of progressive accounting experience; management a plus
Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards
Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience with ERP systems
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent leadership skills with the ability to collaborate effectively.
Preferred Qualifications:
Master’s degree in accounting or MBA
Public accounting experience
Experience in the non-profit and/or education sector
Understanding of fund accounting principles
Skills and Abilities:
Strong commitment to the mission and values of Catholic education.
Detailed and highly organized self-starter
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information in a clear and accessible manner.
High level of integrity and ethical standards.
Proficiency in financial management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Internal and external customer service focused
The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, highly organized, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities. They should have strong business acumen and the ability to partner effectively with the executive leadership team and budget owners to drive strategic financial decisions.
Benefits: Cardinal Gibbons High School and the Diocese of Raleigh offer competitive benefits.
Cardinal Gibbons High School is a private Catholic High School in Raleigh, NC. We are a college preparatory school of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Raleigh. We embrace the mission of Jesus Christ: to form men and women of faith, service, and leadership in church and community. Together, as educators, students, and parents, we move forward in faith to shape and inspire our students to be leaders in their communities today and tomorrow.