What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Controller position at First US Bank?
First US Bank is seeking an experienced and detail-driven Assistant Controller to join its team in Birmingham, Alabama. This role partners closely with the Corporate Controller to oversee daily accounting functions, ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, maintain compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards, and drive continuous process improvement. The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of financial institution accounting, a commitment to operational excellence, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments to support the bank's strategic goals.
Job Summary:
The Assistant Controller supports the Corporate Controller in overseeing accounting operations and ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial records and reporting. This role assists with maintaining compliance with GAAP, SOX, SEC requirements, and applicable banking regulations, while supporting a strong internal control environment appropriate for a publicly traded financial institution. Plays a key role in day-to-day accounting management, financial close processes, audit support, and team leadership. Performs additional duties as assigned.
Primary Responsibilities / Job Duties:
- Assist in overseeing all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, cash management, payroll accounting, and loan and deposit operations accounting.
- Support the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring accurate and timely financial results in accordance with established close calendars.
- Prepare, review, and analyze journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Support daily and monthly cash reconciliations and financial position reporting.
- Assist in maintaining and enhancing the general ledger and supporting systems to ensure data integrity, consistency, and reporting efficiency.
- Support the design, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure reliable financial reporting.
- Participate in SOX compliance activities, including control documentation, testing, remediation, and monitoring of control effectiveness.
- Serve on management’s Disclosure Committee and support the preparation and review of SEC reports, including 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and 11-K.
- Assist with external audits, internal audits, and regulatory examinations by preparing documentation, responding to inquiries, and supporting issue resolution.
- Support the preparation of financial statements, internal management reports, and supporting schedules.
- Assist in evaluating accounting processes, systems, and controls to identify opportunities for improvement, automation, and risk mitigation.
- Provide technical accounting research and support under the direction of the Corporate Controller, including assistance with new accounting standards and transactions.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis activities as requested.
- Participate in special projects, system implementations, and process improvement initiatives.
- Participate in and complete all required compliance training, including BSA/AML, as well as other internal and external training programs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting required.
- CPA and/or Masters in Accounting preferred.
- Minimum of seven years of progressive accounting experience within the banking industry.
- Prior experience as an Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, or senior accounting role strongly preferred.
- Solid knowledge of GAAP and banking-specific accounting principles.
- Experience supporting SOX compliance, audits, and regulatory examinations.
- Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet reporting deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with auditors and cross-functional partners.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and sound judgment.
Working Environment / Physical Demands:
Work is performed in a professional office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. May require the ability to lift files, bend, reach, walk or maneuver around the bank. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.
Disclaimer:
This position description is not intended, and should not be construed, to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job; it is intended to be an accurate reflection of those principal job elements essential to the job.
Federal Contractor – Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disabled/Vets