Controller

Position Overview

The Controller is an integral member of the Business Office team, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day financial operations of the School. This role ensures the integrity of financial reporting, maintains strong internal controls, and aligns systems and policies with regulatory requirements and best practices. They provide high-level supervision, mentorship, and strategic direction across core finance functions. The Controller plays a key role in sustaining a strong collaborative Business Office team, is a visible and engaged member of the broader school community, and advances the School’s mission through thoughtful, strategic financial stewardship.

Working collaboratively across the community—including faculty, staff, trustees, and parents—the Controller builds strong relationships and serves as a trusted financial partner. This role reports directly to the Director of Finance & Operations (DFO).

Major Areas of Responsibility/Specific Duties:

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Oversee all accounting functions, including accounts payable/receivable, cash management, and reconciliations. Ensure an accurate monthly close process in accordance with GAAP rules.
• Maintain the general ledger system and database. Engage with accounting and business system(s) vendor(s) on the review and analysis of system issues, system improvements, implementation of new software releases, and training opportunities for Business Office staff.
• Supervise, mentor, and support the accounting team member, fostering accountability and professional growth.
• Oversee tuition management and family billing.
• Partner with the Director of HR in areas where the team’s work intersects, including monthly payroll submission, budgeting, expense reimbursements, and compliance tasks.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and service-oriented finance function.

Financial Oversight & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and applicable nonprofit accounting standards.
• Oversee Fixed Asset control, accounting and management.
• In consultation with the DFO, lead the development and maintain accounting policies & procedures and ensure that proper internal accounting controls are in place and adhered to.
• Management of various state, federal, and other regulatory compliance requirements, including Property Tax Exemption, City of Bellevue enrollment letter, B&O tax, and others.
• Partner in the oversight of Business Office related records retention.
• Provide oversight of annual audit activities (schedule preparation, responding to inquiries, etc.) including the preparation of the annual Form 990 and coordinating the annual engagement with external auditors.
• Administer the Financial Aid application process with the collection of required information, analysis preparation and coordination of the approval and notification of financial aid awards.

Reporting & Budgeting

• Oversee and guide the modeling and preparation of the annual operating budget, working closely with the DFO and Business Office Officers.
• Partner with the Director of Auxiliary Programs to review budgeting, costing, and reporting for Auxiliary and Summer programs.
• Prepare and analyze quarterly, and annual financial reports including the analysis and monitoring of budget variances.
• Oversee the preparation of monthly budget reports for all departments and assist department budget managers in meeting operational budget goals and objectives.
• Contribute to a strong, collaborative, and service-oriented Business Office team.
• Partner effectively with colleagues across the school to support operational and strategic priorities.
• Engage as an active, positive member of the school community, building strong working relationships.
• Other duties as needed and assigned.

#L1-SR1

Qualities & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree and/or 7+ years finance related experience.
• Experience in non-profit fund accounting is a plus.
• Experience in an educational setting is a plus.
• CPA or CMA certification is a plus.
• Experience in managing/coordinating the financial aid process is a plus.
• Experience with Blackbaud software (FENXT, RENXT, BBTM) is a plus.
• Excellent cultural competency, willing, and able to work with multiple groups of people from diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain cordial, flexible, and professional relationships with colleagues and parents.
• Excellent written and verbal skills demonstrated via phone, email, and in-person conversations.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently, collegially, and collaboratively. Positive team member.
• Strong computer skills and proficient user of Microsoft Office, specifically Excel, as well as a willingness to learn new technology as needed.
• Supports our mission statement to nurture and inspire students of high intellectual potential.

Position Details:

Manager: Director of Finance & Operations

Compensation: $120,000 to $140,000 annually

Position Classification: Full Time, Exempt

Hours: Core business hours of 8am – 4pm, occasional evening or weekend work (i.e. monthly Finance Committee meeting).

Benefits include:

• Sick leave
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (paid 100% for employee only coverage)
• Employer paid Health Reimbursement Account of $1,750 per plan year
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 403(b) Retirement Account, Pre-tax & Roth Options (eligible for 3% employer contribution and an up to 3% employer match after one year of service)
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Professional development and training opportunities

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position, your resume, and complete all application questions on our Career Opportunities website. Open Window School does not sponsor employment visas. 

Please be prepared to provide three references if requested. If you have any questions about the position or the application process, feel free to reach out hr@ows.org. Applications should be submitted through the online system and not via email.

Open Window School does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, creed, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, or other status legally protected by local, state, or federal law.