Controller Minneapolis, MN

Controller Position

We are looking for an experienced Controller to oversee financial operations for a school district north of Minneapolis, Minnesota. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, supporting informed decision-making, and strengthening fiscal accountability across district functions. The ideal candidate brings strong government or educational accounting expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to manage reporting, compliance, budgeting support, and audit preparation in a complex public-sector environment.

Responsibilities:

• Direct daily accounting activities, including proper transaction classification, account entry review, and confirmation that receipts are recorded in the correct funds and accounts.

• Maintain short- and long-term cash planning records, monitor liquidity needs, and manage excess funds in alignment with legal guidelines and district investment practices.

• Produce month-end and year-end financial statements and supporting reports, including materials prepared for school board review such as treasury, interest, and investment summaries.

• Administer and refine the chart of accounts, ensuring the general ledger and related revenue and expenditure coding structures support accurate reporting.

• Prepare and post entries related to transfers, corrections, and adjustments, while reconciling ledger balances on a recurring monthly and annual basis.

• Partner with finance leadership on budget development, forecasting, and variance analysis to identify trends affecting revenue and spending performance.

• Lead year-end accounting close activities and organize documentation required for the annual external audit, including coordination with auditors and internal stakeholders.

• Oversee financial administration of federal, state, and local grants by establishing account structures, tracking funding, preparing reports, and supporting program leaders through compliance requirements.

• Review internal control practices, recommend process improvements, and help implement agreed-upon measures that strengthen financial stewardship and operational reliability.

• Provide operational support to business office functions, including accounting, payroll, and purchasing oversight, and assist with daily leadership coverage when senior finance management is unavailable.