Controller

Job Title: Controller

Location: Nashville, TN; Jackson, MS

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

Position Type: Full-time

Who We Are

Serving more than 2,900 scholars in seven schools across two cities; Jackson, Mississippi and Nashville, Tennessee, RePublic Schools is the only school network solely dedicated to reimagining public education in the South. 

Part of reimagining education in the South means that we confront the historic inequities that work against our scholars and actively work to dismantle those inequities. We are doing this by intentionally creating environments that embrace, honor, and celebrate our scholars’ identities and experiences, as well as the identities and experiences of every member of our community. 

At RePublic, we cultivate a cohesive community of families, staff, and scholars committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure our scholars succeed. We are looking for a dynamic Controller who shares our unwavering belief that all children can achieve at high levels and change the world. Sound like you?

What You’ll Do

The Controller is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the organization, ensuring long-term financial health, and providing strategic financial guidance to senior management and stakeholders. This role involves developing and implementing financial strategies, managing budgets, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Controller will work closely with cross-functional teams to optimize financial performance, support decision-making, and ensure the organization’s financial objectives align with its overall goals. Strong leadership, financial expertise, and a strategic mindset are key to success in this position.

Financial Management & Strategy:

• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with Republic’s strategic priorities.
• Lead the budgeting and forecasting process for the network, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and effective allocation of resources.
• Monitor financial performance and provide recommendations to senior leadership for improving financial results and achieving operational goals.
• Advise the CFO and senior leadership team on key financial decisions, strategic planning, and long-term financial sustainability.

Financial Reporting & Analysis:

• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements to school leadership, senior leadership, and the Board of Directors.
• Conduct detailed financial analysis and provide actionable insights on variances, trends, and operational efficiencies.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with applicable standards.
• Manage cash flow to ensure sufficient liquidity and monitor the network's financial position.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including audit and reporting filings.
• Oversee preparation for internal and external audits, managing audit relationships, and ensuring timely resolution of any findings.
• Monitor changes in regulations and ensure compliance with all applicable financial and tax laws.

Grant & Funding Management:

• Manage financial aspects of grants, including budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
• Develop and maintain relationships with funding agencies, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Oversee the preparation of grant applications and ensure proper documentation of expenditures and outcomes.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and collaboration.
• Provide training and support for staff on financial processes and systems to ensure understanding and compliance with financial policies.
• Evaluate and enhance financial systems and processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Financial Systems & Technology:

• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial systems.
• Evaluate and select financial tools and systems to improve reporting and operational efficiency.
• Lead the effort to integrate financial systems with other organizational platforms for improved data flow and decision-making.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field required.
• Candidates must hold a valid Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
• At least 3 years of experience  in a senior financial role within a nonprofit or education setting.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting practices, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance 

(e.g., GAAP, FASB, government funding requirements).

• Proficiency in accounting software (Intacct preferred), accounts payable platforms (Bill.com 

preferred), Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word), and Google Drive.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a team, while managing multiple financial priorities in a 

dynamic environment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial 

information to non-financial stakeholders.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality.

Why You’ll Love Us

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive salary aligned with experience and local district benchmarks.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including family planning benefits, mental health support, and paid time off.

Professional Development:

• Access to leadership development programs and career advancement opportunities.