Controller

SUMMARY

The primary purpose of this position is to manage financial planning and accounting tasks related to the public housing operating program, capital fund program, and other grant programs. Reporting to the CFO, the Controller will be responsible for oversight of all accounting, and reporting activities, including preparation and analysis of budgets, the maintenance of general ledger accounts, the reconciliation of financial data, and the preparation of financial reports.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Manages the work of staff including: assigning, planning, and reviewing work, evaluating work performance and completing performance evaluations, coordinating activities, maintaining standards, allocating personnel, participating in the selection of new employees, training staff, addressing employee problems, and recommending discipline.
• Consistently analyze financial data and present financial reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements; monitor progress and changes and keep senior leadership abreast of HANO’s financial status.
• Assists in the development and implementation of new accounting software, or other related information systems and accounting procedures. Works with IT and the software vendor to resolve accounting software system problems.
• Develops and maintains a comprehensive system of financial reporting that satisfies HUD requirements and internal staff needs for the public housing, capital fund, and other grant programs.
• Reviews general ledger entries to ensure accuracy and compliance with generally accepted accounting principles, HUD guidelines, and agency policy.
• Interprets and communicates financial information to the Board of Commissioners, HANO management, and external parties.
• Maintains a system that allows for the review of purchases to ensure funds are available, the item purchased is eligible, and the account charged is appropriate.
• Ensures the timely request for reimbursement of funds from HUD, the city of New Orleans and other grantors. Monitors and reviews reimbursement requests to ensure they match the general ledger.
• Coordinates the accounting of fixed assets and works with the CFO and Sr. Accountant to ensure that fixed assets are properly recorded in the general ledger system.
• Assists CFO with the annual budgeting and planning process; administers and reviews all financial statements/plans and compares actual results with a view to identify, explain, and correct variances as appropriate.
• Advises the CFO on the establishment of budget controls and administers budget controls for each assigned program or grant.
• Serves as the lead financial person in collecting and filing sales tax rebates with the state of Louisiana.
• Keeps abreast of regulatory changes relating to the accounting or financial operations of HANO.
• Establishes and implements cost allocation plans.
• Makes recommendations for new accounts, revisions in the account structure, and changes in instructions regarding the use of accounts.
• Provides training and guidance to subordinate staff on HUD regulations, generally accepted accounting principles, HANO’s accounting system, and HANO policies.
• Provides assistance to HANO program managers in the analysis and interpretation of financial information. Interprets financial information and presents to diverse audiences.
• Assists in preparing for and coordinating internal and external audits.
• Maintains a good working relationship with all staff, promotes and provides excellent customer service, and communicates with staff in a professional manner.
• Leverages strengths of current Finance team members, developing and implementing training programs in order to maximize and reach optimal individual and organizational goals.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Job Competencies

• Solid experience coordinating audit activities and managing reporting, budget development, and analysis, accounts payable and receivable, general ledger, payroll and accounting for investments.
• A track record in grants management as it relates to compliance and reporting of government, agency, and foundation grants is essential.
• Technology savvy with experience selecting and overseeing software installations and managing relationships with software vendors; advanced knowledge of accounting and reporting software.
• Commitment to recruiting, mentoring, training, and retaining a diverse team; the foresight and ability to delegate accordingly.
• Keen analytic, organization, and problem-solving skills, which allows for strategic data interpretation vs. simple reporting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; experience in effectively communicating key data, including presentations to senior management, board, or other outside partners.
• Ability and desire to translate complex financial concepts to individuals at all levels including finance and non-finance managers.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration or related field and a minimum of five (5) years of experience in accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis, including a minimum of two (2) years in a supervisory role. Experience with financial aspects of HUD’s public housing and capital fund programs preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Technical Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have above average abilities using computer software such as MS Word, Excel, Outlook, etc. and should be capable of using internet resources for research and developing advanced reports. Must have extensive working knowledge of online accounting systems. Must have the ability to learn other computer software programs as required by assigned tasks.

EEO POLICY STATEMENT

HANO provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, religion, physical or mental disability, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, or gender expression results of genetic testing, or service in the military or veteran status or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.