Controller
Gammon Theological Seminary
Department: Finance & Administration
Reports To: President/CEO and CFO
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Status: Full-Time
The Controller is an individual contributor responsible for the day-to-day accounting operations of Gammon Theological Seminary. This position has a strong emphasis on the accurate maintenance of the general ledger, monthly account reconciliations, financial statement preparation, and the timely completion of the monthly and annual close processes.
The Controller performs the tactical accounting work necessary to ensure the integrity of the Seminary's financial records and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). While the position collaborates closely with the President, the CFO, auditors, and department leaders, it is primarily a hands-on accounting role rather than a strategic finance leadership position.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
General Ledger & Monthly Close
● Maintain the integrity of the Seminary's general ledger.
● Prepare and post monthly journal entries.
● Perform month-end and year-end closing activities.
● Provide support for the reconciliations for all Balance Sheet accounts
● Research and resolve accounting discrepancies and reconciling items.
● Record monthly activity for investment, payroll, prepaid expense, fixed asset, and liability accounts.
● Ensure supporting documentation is maintained for all cash disbursements and cash receipts .
Financial Reporting
● Prepare monthly financial statements, budget to actual reports, and cash flow projections
● Prepare financial reports and analysis for President and CFO as requested.
● Produce any required financial reports for outside constituents.
● Assist with annual financial statement preparation.
● Prepare variance analyses and explanations for significant account fluctuations.
Accounts & Accounting Operations
● Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable accounting processes.
● Ensure proper recording of revenue and expenses.
● Maintain the chart of accounts.
● Monitor fixed asset activity and depreciation schedules.
● Ensure accounting transactions are properly classified.
Audit & Compliance
● Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation.
● Serve as the primary accounting contact during annual audits.
● Assist with the preparation of 990 tax filings and regulatory reports.
● Ensure compliance with GAAP and Seminary accounting policies.
● Maintain accounting documentation and internal controls.
Grants & Restricted Funds
● Track grant expenditures.
● Reconcile restricted funds.
● Prepare accounting reports related to grants and donor restrictions.
● Assist with gift reconciliation in partnership with Advancement.
Process Improvement
● Recommend improvements to accounting procedures.
● Maintain accounting policies and documentation.
● Identify opportunities to improve efficiency within accounting operations.
● Assist with implementation of accounting system enhancements.
Leadership & Collaboration
The Controller works collaboratively with the President and CFO external auditors, Human Resources, Advancement, and department leaders to ensure accurate financial reporting. This position provides accounting expertise and technical guidance but is not responsible for institutional financial strategy, budget ownership, or departmental leadership.
Supervisory Responsibilities
None.
This is an individual contributor position and does not have direct supervisory responsibility. The Controller is expected to work independently, manage multiple accounting priorities, and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
Education & Experience
● Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field required.
● Master's degree in Accounting, Business Administration (MBA), or Finance preferred.
● Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation preferred.
● Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including responsibility for general ledger accounting, monthly close, financial reporting, reconciliations, and audit preparation.
● Demonstrated experience preparing financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
● Experience with nonprofit accounting, higher education, grant accounting, and restricted funds strongly preferred.
● Experience working independently in a hands-on accounting environment with responsibility for the full accounting cycle.
● Experience with QuickBooks Online
● Experience with accounting and ERP systems and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
● Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.