Controller, Finance & Banking, CFO

Southern Bancorp is more than a bank. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), a special certification designated for institutions that serve predominantly underserved communities, Southern Bancorp combines traditional banking and lending services with financial development tools and public policy advocacy to help families and communities grow stronger. Inspired by the principle that building net worth drives economic opportunity, our mission is to be wealth builders for everyone in the communities we serve, with a focus on low‑wealth and un(der) banked populations, as well as an emphasis on Black and Brown individuals.

This role is responsible for managing the day‑to‑day accounting operations of the Bank, its holding company, and applicable affiliates/subsidiaries including the general ledger, financial close process, and preparation of financial reporting. Reporting to the Chief Accounting Officer, the Controller ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and regulatory accounting requirements. This role oversees accounting operations, manages the accounting team, and supports financial reporting while partnering with the Chief Accounting Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and other senior leaders to maintain strong financial controls and operational efficiency.

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Oversee the general ledger, reconciliations, and account analysis to maintain integrity of accounting records.
• Support the Chief Accounting Officer in executing accounting policies and ensuring compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards.
• Prepare and deliver management reporting packages for executive leadership.
• Support complex accounting transactions under the direction of the Chief Accounting Officer, including acquisitions, allowance for credit losses, and investment accounting.
• Oversee quarterly and annual Regulatory reporting.

• Ensure effective execution of internal controls over financial reporting within accounting operations.
• Support internal audits and regulatory examinations related to accounting processes.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen operational efficiency and adherence to control procedures.

• Coordinate operational aspects of the annual financial statement audit and manage audit deliverables.
• Support external auditors and ensure timely responses to requests under the direction of the Chief Accounting Officer.
• Assist with regulatory examination requests related to accounting operations.

• Provide day‑to‑day oversight of accounting staff, including general ledger, financial reporting, and operational accounting functions.
• Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

• Partner with executive management and the Chief Accounting Officer to support strategic initiatives and growth.
• Assist with mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions from an operational accounting perspective.
• Support budgeting and financial planning processes as needed.
• Support ALCO committee with Asset & Liability Management process and reporting.
• Identify opportunities for automation and process improvement within accounting operations.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).
• CPA certification or equivalent experience.
• 10 or more years of progressive accounting experience, with significant experience in banking or financial services accounting.
• Prior experience in a Controller, Assistant Controller, or senior accounting leadership role preferred.
• Experience leading accounting operations in financial institutions with $1‑10B in assets preferred.
• Mission‑aligned and passionate about community banking and impact.
• Strong expertise in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and internal controls.
• Deep knowledge and experience with US GAAP, banking regulations, and regulatory…