Controller
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer Location: Los Angeles, CA – in person on campus
FLSA Status: Full-Time/ Exempt Salary range: $125,000 - $140,000 based on experience.
Position Description
Performing a key role supporting the CFO, the Controller ensures the smooth, efficient operation of the accounting function in the Business Office. This individual acts as a liaison and administrative partner, handling a variety of administrative and finance tasks with discretion, professionalism, and warmth. This role involves implementing best practices for Business Office functions and school-wide procedures, utilizing established internal controls and recommending new procedures as needed. Responsibilities include timely completion of general accounting, audits, tax, contracts, enrollment agreements, cash management, A/R, A/P, bank and investment account reconciliations, P-Card system, Amazon account, semi-monthly payroll, and 403(b) contributions. Prepares financial reports, forecasts, and budgets for the Board of Trustees. The ideal candidate can lead special projects and is proactive and detail-oriented in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Experience and Essential Job Functions
General Accounting
• Prepare and analyze monthly financial statements ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP
• Complete audits for 6/30 fiscal year, 403(b) calendar year, and lead prep of Form 990
• Oversee and perform the school’s daily accounting functions
• Assist and support the CFO with preparation of Preliminary and Final Budgets
Student Contracts and Billing
• Oversee preparation of student enrollment agreements each year
• Ensure A/R is monitored for accuracy and follow ups occur regularly when necessary
• Prepare reports to guide decisions for new enrollments, financial aid, and operational budgets
• Generate revenue recognition and accrual schedules for tuition, salaries, benefits, insurance, etc.
Cash Management
• Support the CFO in monitoring cash flow (checking, cash management, and investments)
• Assure daily financial account activity is accurate, screen for fraud, and follow up on transactions
• Complete daily review of credits and debits in all cash accounts
• Ensure Accounting Manager records payments for student tuition accounts and miscellaneous receipts and completes remote desktop deposits timely
• Record donations and receipts in Blackbaud FE-NXT and coordinate in RE-NXT with Advancement
Payroll
• Support the preparation of semi-monthly payroll (Paychex Flex) for all employees
• Maintain individual payroll files for deductions such as 403(b), deferred compensation, medical and dental insurance, and all other employee benefits
• Confirm accuracy of 403(b) contributions for each payroll; provide requested information to auditors.
• Record payroll journal from Paychex, prepare reconciliation and update appropriate expense and liability accounts and accruals in the general ledger
Accounts Payable
• Work with the team to ensure accuracy of vendor invoices and employee/volunteer reimbursements
• Double check appropriate budget manager approves payments
• Support the weekly issuance of checks, reimbursements, and EFT payments
• Supervise the preparation and monthly distribution of budget reports to budget managers
• Review monthly financial statements, including but not limited to Budget to Actual Report
• Supervise and complete with the annual preparation of audit work papers with external auditors
Other Responsibilities
• Complete reports, general journal entries, etc. necessary for annual fiscal year audit
• Assist CFO with special projects; provide reports to the Executive Team and budget managers
• Attend Senior Administration, Finance Committee, and Audit Committee meetings
• Maintain the highest confidentiality and discretion relative to all Business Office matters
• Facilitate the smooth daily functioning of the Business Office
• Maintain open and helpful communication with employees, students, parents, and vendors
• Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
BA degree required; CPA and/or MA degree in accounting, finance, or business preferred
Minimum 5-7 years of prior experience in non-profit accounting, ideally in an educational setting
Looking to make a long-term commitment to this school community and business office team
Proven success working collaboratively and efficiently on a creative and goal-oriented team
Ability to make quick decisions, take initiative, and prioritize tasks
Exceptional organizational and time management skills; consistently prioritize multiple tasks effectively and quickly; excellent written and verbal communication skills
High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills; able to interact with a diverse range of individuals with warmth and professionalism; good sense of humor
Tech-savvy and proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar), Microsoft Office Suite, and familiarity with school systems (e.g., Blackbaud, Paychex Flex, RAMP) a plus
Culturally competent with a desire to be an engaged community learner
Growth mindset, detail oriented with solid analytical and management skills
Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends, depending on school events and meetings
First Aid and CPR training required (training provided if not currently certified)
Valid CA driver license and clear criminal background investigation
Job Perks
Beautiful, rustic campus easily accessible from both LA’s city and valley sides
Top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage with zero to low premium contributions
403(b) retirement plan with a 5% match and immediate vesting
Flexible tuition eligibility if applicable
Professional development support including opportunities for growth
Relocation Assistance
Employee affinity groups
Paid holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving week, Winter and Spring breaks) plus vacation
Community and connection with staff/administration
Generous benefits package, pet insurance, Lifelock credit monitoring, and FSA accounts
To apply for this position, submit the following three PDFs to chip.doshi@tatum-us.com
1. Cover letter introducing yourself to the Mirman School Search Committee
2. Resume or CV
3. A response to the following prompt:
What are the three most vital internal controls necessary to protect the school’s assets and what steps have you taken in the past to ensure the accounting team effectively detects and prevents fraudulent transactions?
Please do not submit inquiries about this search to Mirman School personnel via email or phone.