CONTROLLER - Jeffco Public Schools - Colorado : Job Details

Controller, Job ID 29216

Location: Jeffco Schools Ed Center

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

Jeffco Public Schools (Jeffco) is located in Jefferson County, Colorado. It is the second largest school district in Colorado serving 69,000 students across 155 schools. With 14,000 employees, the district is the largest employer in Jefferson County and has provided educational excellence for more than 70 years.

Jeffco Public Schools is a Single-State Employer. All candidates hired by Jeffco Public Schools must reside within the state of Colorado.

ABOUT THE SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT

The Financial Services division delivers excellent customer service to Jeffco schools, departments and staff, focused on providing analysis, recommendations, reports and services that maximize our resources and ensure the long-term sustainability and compliance of the school district. The division includes 70 professionals, working across budget, accounting, grants, risk management, internal audit, procurement, payroll, capital financial management and enrollment forecasting and mapping. Financial Services approaches our work from a values perspective, seeking to embody each of the core values of the district: belonging, equity, excellence, focus on students and integrity. Individuals who approach their work with a focus on continuous improvement, innovation and efficiency will thrive in Financial Services.

ABOUT THE JOB

The Controller is uniquely positioned to lead in a critical moment for Jeffco Public Schools. We are embarking on a whole-scale change to our Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This will include not only replacing the software for financial and human resources management, but also the opportunity to streamline processes and use 21st century technology to automate more of our work flow. This position will have the leadership opportunity to redefine roles and team structures to fully leverage the functionality in the new system. This is an exciting moment to become Jeffco's Controller.

HOURS AND DAYS WORKED

Desired Start Date: 08/01/2024

FLSA: Exempt

FTE: 1.00000 , Hours/Day: 8.000 , Days/Year: Year Round

Salary Plan, Grade, Step: JCA - Administrator - 229 days , G12, 1

Min-Mid Annual Salary Range: $127,982.00 - $152,957.50 Effective as of: 06-16-2024

Compensation schedules for Jeffco Schools can be found here. Starting salary for non-licensed roles is based on the candidate's relevant work experience and education. Additional considerations may be given for job-specific certifications and skills. Applicants should submit all relevant and verifiable education, training and work experiences at the time of application. Starting Salary for licensed educators is based on the step and lane schedule found here.

RESPONSIBILITIES

SUMMARY Lead the team of professionals responsible for accounting, grants management, audit, internal audit, accounts payable, and financial reporting within the district. The Controller leads goal-setting, analysis and continuous improvement efforts within the team to provide efficient and effective service to stakeholders inside and outside the district.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Develop, modify, interpret and implement financial policies and procedures inclusive of internal controls aligned to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and applicable federal, state and local regulations.
• Lead the preparation, analysis, and presentation of periodic financial reports that transparently present the district's financial status; including departmental and business unit analysis to identify variances against budget and concerning trends that should be closely monitored by the district. Such reports include quarterly reports and the district's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) as well as ad hoc reports requested by leaders in the district.
• Serve as primary contact and coordinator for the district's annual independent financial audit and lead preparation of all statements, notes, and management discussion; and analysis and transmittal letters necessary to complete and contextualize this audit, consistent with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) pronouncements and guidance.
• Lead the preparation and presentation of agendas and materials for the district?s Audit Oversight Committee (AOC) which meets approximately four times annually.
• Support the CFO and/or directly present financial and audit reporting necessary for the Financial Oversight Committee (FOC), Board of Education (BOE), and Capital Asset Advisory Committee (CAAC), all of which meet periodically throughout the fiscal year.
• Oversee grants management, including financial reporting and tracking; completion of the annual single audit; submissions through the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) data pipeline; and general compliance with the requirements of laws, regulations, and district policy and procedures pertaining to grants.
• Lead the team's work to liaise with charter schools to meet financial reporting requirements, pass through funding to these schools, and monitor their financial sustainability. Provide financial review of all Charter applications and renewals for the district and defend positions at State Board level when needed.
• Direct functional processes and transactional management within the district's enterprise resource planning software and PeopleSoft; including evaluating the financial software and recommending enhancements or changes in coordination with the district's information technology department.
• Responsible for the internal controls' framework and procedures. Review internal audit reports for compliance and policy enforcement of financial controls. Identify areas of risk that can be mitigated by in-person training, training aides, or sent through internal communication channels. Work with employee relations to reduce legal issues and/or provide attention to legal issues.
• Oversee the efficient and effective issuance of payments against invoices; as conducted through the accounts payable team, ensuring this team adheres to and guides appropriate approval processes as stipulated in the financial policies and procedures and/or internal controls of the district.
• Guide accurate fixed asset accounting.
• Serve as a permanent member for CDE's Financial Policy & Procedures (FPP) advisory council and represent the district's interest in providing guidance to CDE about school finance and management.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE A minimum of 5 years of experience in administration/management. Four years of experience in governmental accounting preferred.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING Bachelor's degree required. Preferred file of study in business, accounting, or related field.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS None. Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Thorough knowledge and experience in governmental finance including accounting, procurement, risk management, debt issuance, and cash/treasury management. Advanced computer, word processing, spreadsheet, and database skills. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Working knowledge and experience with managing large, complex financial systems. Strong leadership and project management skills. Excellent communication skills with ability to reach all types of audiences.

SPAN OF CONTROL Directly supervise the Internal Auditor, Grants Accounting Manager, Senior Manager General Accounting, and Accounts Payable Supervisor. Also supervises external consultants and auditors as needed. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; and addressing complaints and resolving problems.

The physical demands, mental functions, and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS Ability to focus on objects at varying distances and distinguish between colors (with corrective lenses). Perform tasks that require manual dexterity, including operation of computers and small office equipment. Basic mobility and the ability to navigate the office environment safely. Ability to speak clearly, listen attentively (with assistance devices), and convey information accurately. May be required to give presentations to groups.

MENTAL FUNCTIONS Ability to analyze complex situations, identify potential risks, and devise effective solutions. Ability to remain flexible in dynamic environments, adjusting plans and strategies as necessary to accommodate changing requirements or circumstances. Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with other teams. Ability to manage time and priorities to meet deadlines.