Controller

JOB TITLE: Sr. Accounting Manager/ Controller

DEPARTMENT: Finance

REPORTS TO: CEO, Propel Education

JOB TYPE: Full-Time

LOCATION: Local/ Hybrid (Atlanta, GA)

Propel Education Overview

Propel Education was launched in February 2020 in Birmingham. AL to create a suite of signature programs designed to engage students, educators and adult learners in innovative digital skills experiences that better prepare them for the 21st century workforce. In February 2021, Propel Education, in partnership with Apple and Southern Company, announced plans to launch the Propel Center, a physical and virtual hub based in Atlanta, GA that will partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to provide powerful learning experiences for HBCU students and staff, and increase the pool of HBCU graduates entering and leading the innovation economy.

Role Overview

Propel Education is seeking a Controller to manage accounting transactions, further develop accounting policies and review monthly budget to actual performance. We are looking for someone who can both establish accounting systems and processes for today as well as prepare the organization for scale. To be successful in this role, you should have in-depth knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). You are a seasoned financial professional with a high bar for excellence and a demonstrated commitment to Propel Education’s mission to expand the pipeline of successful black talent in the innovation economy. You will report to the Propel Education CEO and ensure that the organization has the financial processes, systems, and policies necessary to support our strategic and financial goals.

EXPECTATIONS:

The day-to-day job responsibilities will fluctuate depending upon business needs. Below is a list of the job responsibilities overall:

• Establish and maintain corporate accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure conformance with US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Ensure accurate & timely preparation of the organization’s monthly and annual financial statements.
• Evaluate current financial policies and practices to drive continuous improvement in order to achieve greater efficiencies and accuracy in the level, and timeliness of reporting.
• Ensure accurate accounting and reporting against various Statements of Work.
• Lead the annual audit process with an outside accounting firm driving clean and timely audit results.
• Research and analysis in all accounting matters.
• Manage all tax matters including the annual 990 filing.
• Develop and monitor business performance metrics.
• Manage all balance sheet account reconciliations including reconciliations between the general ledger and any sub-ledgers.
• Ensure that appropriate accounts payable processes, including vendor maintenance, invoice processing and expense reimbursements are performed in accordance with current policies.
• Manage accounts receivable billing and collection processes.
• Provide management with information vital to decision-making.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

GOALS/OUTCOMES:

Financial Management

Tasks or Duties to Accomplish Outcomes:

• Ensures that adequate financial controls are in place to protect the financial health of the organization.

Measurable Goals/Outcomes:

• Provides accurate and complete financial reports and plans for review, revision, and approval.
• Enhances revenue and controls costs to ensure achievement of planned operating margin.

Frequency:

• Monthly

Operational Management

Tasks or Duties to Accomplish Outcomes:

• Develops, communicates and leads the implementation of annual operating and financial plans.

Measurable Goals/Outcomes:

• Identifies obstacles and problems and takes corrective action to achieve plans and goals.

Frequency:

• Ongoing

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Tasks or Duties to Accomplish Outcomes:

• Facilitate cross-functional meetings to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Work collaboratively with departments across both organizations to provide guidance and to attain fiscal organizational goals.

Frequency:

• Ongoing

Strategic Planning

Tasks or Duties to Accomplish Outcomes:

• Develops, communicates and leads the implementation of the organization’s strategic plan as they relate to fiscal management.

Measurable Goals/Outcomes:

• Ensures that financial processes are effective and that the organization’s strategic direction is clear to all staff.

Frequency:

• Quarterly

REQUIRED SKILLS, BEHAVIOR, OR KNOWLEDGE

1. Bachelors Degree in Business Administration or Finance (Advanced Degree preferred).
2. 10 years of experience with a track record of implementing process improvements.
3. Certified Public Accountant .designation
4. Proven track record as a team leader with an understanding of business management practices and operational excellence.
5. Demonstrated project and budget management skills.
6. Strong Excel skills and a demonstrated use of available technology.
7. Strong business acumen with a broad understanding of fundamental business principles.
8. Ability to set overall strategy and drive process improvement.
9. Analytical problem-solving skills with an impeccable attention to detail.