Director of Accounting Services/Controller

Beacon College, an accredited institution dedicated to empowering neurodivergent students through a holistic and entrepreneurial approach, seeks a collaborative and detail-oriented Director of Accounting Services/Controller. Reporting to the CFO, this role leads critical financial operations-including general ledger, payroll, budgeting, and reporting. The ideal candidate is a strategic and service-minded finance leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment and is committed to supporting student success through operational excellence.

TITLE: Director of Accounting Services/Controller

DEPARTMENT: Accounting Services

WORK TYPE: Full-Time | Staff

LOCATION: Beacon College, Leesburg, Florida

FLSA: Exempt Salary

DIVISION: Finance

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of Accounting Services/Controller reports to the Chief Financial Officer and is responsible for organizing, directing, and evaluating a wide variety of financial activities including the planning and development of the College's basic system of accounting and financial control. The position is responsible for Accounts Payable, Student Accounts and Receivables, Payroll, Auxiliary Accounting, Vocational Rehabilitation, General Ledger, and Financial Reporting.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND responsibilities:

• Direct and oversee general ledger, payroll, debt service, fixed assets, construction accounting, grants/restricted funds, and cash management functions
• Provide indirect oversight of accounts payable, accounts receivable, student finance, and electronic payment processing
• Monitor daily cash position, forecast cash needs, and manage liquidity and transfers
• Lead coordination and preparation of schedules and supporting documentation for annual financial and compliance audits
• Support development, monitoring, and reporting of the annual operating and capital budgets
• Ensure proper documentation standards and audit-ready financial records
• Review and approve journal entries and account reconciliations across functional areas
• Analyze general ledger accounts, identify discrepancies, and ensure timely corrections
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and internal control requirements
• Oversee payroll accuracy and provide backup support for payroll processing and review
• Manage month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, including audit schedules and tax filings
• Lead financial analysis, trend identification, and reporting to support executive decision-making
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Oversee tracking and reporting of restricted funds, capital campaigns, and donor-related activity
• Lead and execute special projects, including audits and financial compliance initiatives
• Provide financial reports and analysis to executive leadership and participate in organizational meetings and training
• All other duties assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, or equivalent experience

Experience: 3+ years of related experience, including supervisory or leadership experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience working in a higher education environment
• Experience working with Jenzebar and Donor Perfect systems
• Proven experience in accounting management roles

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Solid knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting (GAAP)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience with budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting
• Understanding of internal controls and basic compliance requirements
• Familiarity with audit processes and supporting documentation
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple deadlines
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and moderately complex decisions
• Demonstrated ability to lead or coordinate team activities
• Proficiency with standard office and financial systems applications
• Collaborative, service-oriented approach when working with diverse stakeholders
• Knowledge of process improvement and operational efficiency practices

ENVIRONMENT:

This role operates in a professional office environment with regular interaction across campus and digital platforms. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Additional Information

This description is intended to outline the general scope of responsibilities and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Beacon College is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.