Higher Education Financial Controller

Company Description

Gnomon, established over 25 years ago, is a leading institution for training digital artists in the visual effects, animation, and games industries. Recognized as one of the top U.S. colleges by Forbes in 2023, Gnomon offers a bachelor’s degree, a certificate program, 100 individual courses, and a High School Summer Camp. Located in North Hollywood, CA, its state-of-the-art 45,000-square-foot campus includes high-tech computer labs, a green-screen stage, drawing studios, and the Gnomon Gallery. With a strong network of over 1,000 graduates working at renowned studios worldwide, Gnomon is dedicated to empowering artists with the tools for success.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for a Financial Controller based in North Hollywood, CA. Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the Financial Controller leads the financial activities of Gnomon, including all accounting operations, financial reporting, preparation and analysis of financial statements, budgeting and forecast processes.  Other responsibilities include ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, developing financial policies, managing internal controls, and providing support to senior management by conducting financial analysis and sharing key financial insights. 

Areas of core competencies include, but are not limited to, general accounting functions, cash management, compliance and accreditation support, data audits and reporting, and operations support. Required soft-skills include, but are not limited to, strong organizational and communication abilities, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and adaptability.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or other relevant certifications preferred.
• 5 years of experience in accounting operations with a portion of it being in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP), financial reporting, and tax regulations.
• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., Financial Edge, Convergence) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).
• Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Experience with financial audits and compliance reporting is a plus.
• Experience in a higher education setting is a plus.  

Competencies:

• Oversee and manage the general accounting functions, including, but not limited to: accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash forecasting, general ledger, and taxes.
• Develop and implement financial control procedures and systems; maintain documents for audits; ensure compliance with industry and federal regulations and contractual requirements.
• Prepare an operating budget, financial forecasts, reporting, and annual accounting calendar for Gnomon.
• Produce monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Oversee and collaborate with contracted payroll service provider to ensure proper preparation of payroll, tax filings, and corporate tax returns.
• Ensure accuracy of weekly and month-end postings to the general ledger.
• Prepare, review, and distribute financial accounting reports as requested to the CEO and School’s ownership board.
• Perform highly confidential accounting services for management in preparation of and during the audit process. Maintains internal and external confidentiality. 
• Oversee purchasing functions and payment of bills.
• Complete any required audit and regulatory reporting. 
• Demonstrate personal integrity and excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact successfully with a diverse constituency, including vendors, students, families, faculty, and staff. 
• Must work well under pressure and be able to manage working on multiple projects under strict deadlines. 
• Extreme attention to detail, including top-notch organizing and multitasking skills, handle multiple projects and prioritize accordingly. 
• Appropriately handle, sort, file confidential and sensitive information, and locate, gather, synthesize, and interpret complex information. 
• Demonstrate a positive, collaborative attitude and strong work ethic. 
• Integrate new knowledge from a variety of sources with previous knowledge. 
• Read, write legibly, proofread, and follow written and oral instructions in English. Communicate clearly, effectively, and respectfully in writing and orally. 
• Strong personal accountability, problem solving and time management skills