Company Description

KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools is part of the KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) national network of free, open enrollment, college preparatory schools dedicated to ensuring that every child grows up free to create the future they want for themselves and their communities. There are 280 KIPP schools in 21 states and the District of Columbia serving more than 175,000 scholars and alumni. KIPP Metro Atlanta currently operates 11 schools including five primary schools, six middle schools and one high school, as well as KIPP Forward which supports scholars on their journey to a choice-filled life. We are a social justice organization and our vision and mission require the work of dedicated, bold and skilled leaders, educators, and support staff who are committed to serving as the catalyst for joyful, academically excellent schools and the foundation for building a more just and equitable world for our scholars.

Job Description

The Controller is charged with designing, leading, and managing all daily accounting operations, audit, compliance, internal control, and monthly/annual financial reporting for a $125M annual budget at KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will manage the regional Accounting team of two accountants and an AP manager as well as a two person Payroll team. The Controller will manage the execution of accounts payable and receivable, oversight of financial systems (including the general ledger), the annual audit and 990 processes, and grants accounting functions.

Job Responsibilities

Strategy Planning & Execution 25%

• Design, set, direct, and execute the accounting strategy at KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools leading strategic planning and goal setting, gauging capacity, and progress monitoring
• Develop benchmarks for success and track and maintain comprehensive data as a source for developing and improving upon existing systems and structures supporting leadership development
• Develop, improve, and issue timely and complete financial statements, including financial and operating metrics, for both internal and external stakeholders, creating and managing various general ledger reports to assist with budget and grant analyses
• Provide financial analyses as needed to regional functional teams and other stakeholders
• Work with Chief Financial Officer to maintain a comprehensive, accurate, and well-documented system of accounting policies and procedures

Team Leadership & Management 50%

• Build capacity in direct reports through comprehensive development including the establishment of performance goals, regular check-ins, observations, timely feedback and professional development opportunities
• Regularly lead team meetings to ensure the effective cascade of communication, identifying areas of challenge and coordinating necessary changes in response to organizational challenges
• Hold team accountable to performance goals and metrics identified through organizational planning and as part of their day-to-day duties

Accounting Processes 25%

• Ensure accounts payable are paid in a timely manner
• Ensure regular bank reconciliations are timely and accurate, verify timely entries of bank adjustments and check clearing and confirm completeness and accuracy of balance sheet reconciliations
• Reconcile endowment account on a monthly basis
• Ensure grants and accounts receivable are collected promptly and that revenue is recognized accurately in the correct accounting period
• Ensure monthly payroll entries and adjustments, shared salary allocations, and payroll/ benefits/TRS/payroll tax import journal entries are complete and accurate
• Manage the annual financial audit and 990 tax process for four legal entities and three audits (KIPP MAC, KIPP Opportunity Fund, and KIPP South Fulton Academy), as well as the the 1099 and 1096 process annually
• Coordinate the provision of information to external auditors and ensure accuracy of data and information for the annual audit
• Conduct periodic internal audits to ensure compliance with cash, grant accounting, and accounts payable/receivable policies and procedures

Additional Information

Compensation & Benefits:

Compensation for this role is between $125,000 and $145,000. The starting pay will depend on various factors that may include but are not limited to professional experience, education, training, and certifications. KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• 19 days of Paid Time Off, in addition to identified holidays and regular school breaks including Fall Break, Thanksgiving Break, Mid-Winter Break and Spring Break.
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical and dental), life insurance and optional short and long term disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Participation in Georgia retirement plan and an optional 403(b) retirement plan

Location & Work Conditions:

This position requires candidates to be based in Atlanta and regularly be in schools and able to attend in person meetings and events. Additional in person time may be necessary based upon organizational needs.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance required, CPA required, Master’s Degree Preferred
• Minimum 7 years of experience in a accounting role with a successful track record overseeing an organization of $50MM , prior nonprofit experience is preferred
• Minimum 5 years of managerial experience with a track record of building, leading, motivating, and developing diverse and high performing teams
• Technology savvy to efficiently and effectively manage data for financial reporting; knowledge of Sage Intacct desired
• Exceptional strategic thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to solve complex problems and implement solutions; ability to manage both the big picture and the details; a strong sense of judgment
• Track record of leading successful change management across multiple entities
• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing priorities, multi-task, work in a fast-paced demanding environment, operate effectively with ambiguity, and willing to learn and take on new responsibilities