Controller [Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito, CA]

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Controller reports to the CFO/Director of Finance and is responsible for performing accounting duties as well as coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department. The Controller assures the accuracy of all accounting information, prepares financial statements according to strict time deadlines, and assists the CFO on special projects. Ensures compliance with all applicable accounting procedures and standards in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), as well as BADM’s internal policies, procedures, and contracts. This full-time, exempt position supervises the Senior Accountant and Staff Accountant.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounting (95%)

• Working under limited supervision, performs complex accounting duties including maintenance and analysis of accounting records and preparation of accounting schedules, reports, and financial statements.
• Supervises the Accounts Payable functions of the organization to ensure timely and accurate payment of invoices.
• Supervises the Accounts Receivable functions of the organization to monitor aging of outstanding balances and timely collection of amounts owed.
• Assures that the duties, responsibilities, and authority of each managed employee are clearly defined, effective, and appropriately communicated to employees.
• Assures that training and development needs are identified – including cross training efforts to ensure adequate backup exists for critical processes.
• Model, develop, and maintain a team-oriented environment; maintain effective lines of communication between all staff and management.
• Assists CFO with the preparation and maintenance of budgets and projections; provides budget reports to management and assists in interpreting the results; refines budgeting methodology and looks for tools to improve the accuracy and efficiency of this process.
• Reviews all balance sheet accounts and subsidiary ledgers, ensuring reconciliation to the general ledger on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis as necessary; coordinates the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process.
• Assists CFO with streamlining efforts by incorporating technology efficiencies whenever possible; participates in projects to research and develop recommendations on areas needing improvement.
• Forecasts short and long-range cash requirements and obligations as a basis for recommending courses of action.
• Maintains the accuracy of the general ledger and prepares appropriate journal entries.
• Prepares fund equity schedule and reconciles fund balances; moving cash as appropriate.
• Main liaison to the external CPA for the annual financial audit, including preparation of audit schedules, documentation review, and response to auditors’ requests.
• Responsible for the preparation and maintenance of accounting procedures manuals; works to continually improve internal controls and achieve government and regulatory compliance.
• Assists CFO with presentation of information to senior management, committees, and the Board.
• Performs ad hoc financial analysis as required and other duties as assigned.

Other General duties (5%)

• Provides backup to CFO and other finance/HR/IT staff members as needed.
• Assists with major Museum wide events as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business or related field required, MBA desirable.
• At least five years of accounting experience; with demonstrated supervisory experience.
• Not-for-profit and fund accounting experience preferred.
• Tolerance of ambiguity, change, risk, rapid iteration and a fast-paced work environment; ability to manage pressure with sense of humor, perspective and strong prioritization, and positivity.
• Working knowledge of manual and automated accounting systems required, experience with Blackbaud Financial Edge and/or Altru preferred.
• Ability to multi-task, work well under pressure, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
• Must be detail oriented and organized with time and data.
• Excellent computer skills and experience using technology to streamline processes; advanced Excel skills.
• Proven ability to recruit, train, and motivate personnel.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to effectively relate with all levels of employees on financial and budget matters.
• Ability to work as an individual performer and as part of a team.