Finance Controller

Pax Christi Academies, Diocese of Orange

Job Title
:
Finance Controller, Pax Christi Academies.

Location
:
School Sites

Reports To
:
President, Pax Christi Academies.

FLSA Status
:
Exempt

Pax Christi Academies is a Christ-centered educational community committed to academic excellence, faith formation, and service. Guided by Catholic values, we seek to form students who are prepared to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

The Financial Controller is a key member of the leadership team responsible for overseeing and managing the financial operations of Pax Christi Academies. This role ensures accuracy in accounting practices, compliance with regulatory requirements, effective financial planning, and stewardship of resources in alignment with our Catholic mission.

Because all Pax Christi Academies employees represent the Roman Catholic Church, they are expected to conduct themselves according to the goals and mission of the Church in performing their work.

Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger.

Prepare, analyze, and present accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

Ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Monitor cash flow, investments, and balance sheet management.

Lead the annual budget process in collaboration with principals and leadership staff.

Provide financial analysis, forecasting, and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.

Track actual performance against budget and report variances with explanations and corrective actions.

Develop and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.

Oversee compliance with state, federal, and archdiocesan requirements.

Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.

Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations, laws, and guidelines.

Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard PAX Christi's financial assets.

Identify financial risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Supervise finance team staff, providing guidance, professional development, and support.

Partner with school principals and operations managers to ensure proper financial stewardship at each campus.

Communicate financial information clearly to both finance and non-finance stakeholders.

Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including school leaders, external auditors, and financial institutions.

Communicate financial information effectively to non-financial stakeholders.

Represent the financial interests of the group in meetings and negotiations.

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master's degree or CPA preferred).

Minimum 5 - 7 years of progressive financial management experience, preferably in education, nonprofit, or faith-based organizations.

Strong knowledge of accounting systems (e.g., Quick Books, FACTS, or similar).

Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and mentor staff.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights.

Alignment with and commitment to the Catholic values and mission of Pax Christi Academies.

Integrity and ethical judgment.

Strategic and analytical thinking.

Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.

Collaborative and mission-driven leadership.

Ability to balance strategic vision with day-to-day operations.

Salary Range: $130,000-$150,000

• The position primarily involves work in an office setting within the parish premises, requiring frequent use of office equipment such as computers, telephones, printers, credit card swipe, postage machine, and filing systems.
• Evening and weekend work is required to accommodate parish programs and events.
• Must be available to adjust the schedule as needed to meet the needs of the parish community and ministry activities.
• Regular interaction with children, youth, adults, and volunteers in a professional and faith-based environment.
• Some local travel may be required for parish and diocesan meetings or events.

• Ability to remain seated for extended periods while performing administrative tasks.
• Frequent walking, standing, and moving around the parish campus to support programs and events.
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 25 pounds, such as program materials, supplies, and event setups.
• Manual dexterity required for operating office equipment, creating materials, and managing paperwork.
• Visual and auditory ability to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, and parishioners in person via email, and by phone.
• Must be able to set up and dismantle chairs, tables, and other equipment needed for parish activities as required.