Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting & Finance

Job Title:

Controller

Location:

The Covenant School, Charlottesville, Virginia

Position Type:
Full-Time – 12 Month

The Covenant School is seeking a dedicated and experienced Controller to oversee all accounting functions and financial reporting. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller will play a vital role in ensuring the school's financial integrity and operational efficiency.

• Maintain thorough knowledge of financial reporting and general ledger structure within a non-profit environment.
• Ensure timely completion of general ledger preparation and financial reporting activities.
• Oversee daily accounting tasks to accurately manage the school's general ledger.
• Guarantee timely monthly, quarterly, and year‑end financial closings, providing all relevant financial information.
• Conduct regular reviews of the general ledger to verify accuracy of postings.
• Prepare, present, and monitor both operating and capital budgets, including forecasting and variance analysis for the monthly finance committee meeting.
• Execute journal entries, ad hoc reporting, and account reconciliations as required.
• Manage fund accounting to ensure compliance with GAAP for donor commitments.
• Analyze departmental workflows to increase efficiency while upholding accuracy.
• Collaborate with other departments to verify transaction data and resolve discrepancies.
• Provide guidance on the handling of non‑routine financial transactions to staff.
• Preparation of audit work schedules and reconciliations for the annual audits, and coordinate with the retained CPA firm and CFO for a smooth audit process.
• Manage daily and weekly accounting activities, including Accounts Payable (AP), Accounts Receivable (AR), billing, cash management, payroll, and endowment accounts.
• Supervise business office/accounting staff and their development.
• Oversee human resources functions related to onboarding, benefits management, open enrollment, 401(k) plan, payroll, and compliance with employment laws.
• Work with team members to establish yearly performance goals and support their professional growth.

• High commitment to The Covenant School's mission and initiatives.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, with an emphasis in accounting; CPA strongly preferred.
• 5-7 years of prior experience in accounting/financial reporting; experience in a nonprofit organization is a plus.
• Strong professionalism in handling confidential information such as financial aid and salaries.
• Advanced skills in Excel and experience with Blackbaud or similar accounting software.
• Familiarity with computerized accounting systems, particularly Great Plains or Blackbaud, is advantageous.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a focus on customer support and professionalism.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while managing precise accounting operations.
• Capability to stay calm and adaptable under pressure.

The Covenant School encourages applicants from underrepresented groups to apply. We recognize that no candidate meets 100% of the qualifications, and we welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about our mission.