Job Openings
Finance Controller
JOB SUMMARY
The Controller will plan and direct the accounting operations of the organization ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulatory standards, and the development of financial strategies to support Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (the Authority) goals. This position plays a key role in financial planning, budgeting, internal controls, and audit preparation. The Controller is responsible for ensuring the proper accounting and reporting of the Authority’s financial activities in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, sound business practices, relevant local, state and federal regulations, and the Authority’s policies and procedures.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Plan, organize, monitor, and participate with staff in performing day-to-day operations, including general accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable and billing, payroll, banking and cash management, cost management, expense analysis and budget management, fixed assets, inventory, fare revenue, and revenue collection functions.
- Manage the Authority’s interim and annual financial reporting requirements, external audits, and systems of internal controls. This position plans, supervises and reviews the work of professional and technical accounting staff, prepares complex and difficult fiscal analysis, and performs related work as assigned.
- Maintain the account structure and logic of the Authority’s Avail enterprise resource planning (ERP) core financial system, in accordance with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Uniform System of Accounts and FTA National Transit Database reporting requirements.
- Develop, revise and implement accounting policies and procedures for functions within the Finance Division, with concurrence of the Chief Financial Officer, within the framework of the Authority’s enabling legislation, Federal, State and local laws, and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles set forth by the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB).
- Oversee and participate with staff in the development and publication of financial and performance reports, including monthly, quarterly, annual and ad hoc reports, in collaboration with other departmental management and personnel.
- Prepare and reconcile the annual audited financial statements, including Management's Discussion and Analysis, notes to the financial statements, and statistical information within the Annual Audited Financial Report.
- Monitor internal controls and recommend and implement, in collaboration with other divisions, changes and modifications to increase efficiency, effectiveness and accountability.
- Plan and oversee fixed assets and inventories maintained by operating divisions.
- Plan, organize review, and evaluate the work of professional, technical and accounting support staff, and provides training, leadership and mentoring in work-related functions.
- Actively participate and support accounting and payroll system implementations.
- Maintain a documented system of accounting policies and procedures; implement a system of controls over accounting transactions to minimize risk.
- Oversee the production of periodic financial reports; ensure that the reported results comply with generally accepted accounting principles.
- Recommend benchmarks that will be used to measure the Authority’s performance.
- Produce the annual budget and forecast; report significant budget differences to management.
- Provide financial analysis, with emphasis on capital investments, pricing decisions, and contract negotiations.
- Work with external auditors and provide needed information for the annual audit.
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal government requirements.
- Perform other related duties as required or assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Finance Staff
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
1. Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or related field with major coursework in accounting, finance, or business administration from an accredited four (4) year college or university is required.
2. A graduate degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration or other relevant certification (CPA, CMA, MBA) is desirable.
3. 8 + years of progressive accounting/finance experience, with at least 4 years in a leadership role.
4. Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial regulations, financial reporting principles and compliance requirements.
5. Public accounting experience in auditing and preparation of financial statements and internal controls documentation and assessments is desirable.
6. Experience with financial software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Excel.
7. Exceptional analytical, problem solving, judgement and decision-making skills.
8. Excellent communication and leadership skills.
9. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
10. Previous experience in a Controller’s role is preferred.
11. Proven track record of driving financial improvements and cost-savings initiatives.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Ability to comprehend and apply generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), understand and generate financial reports and regulatory compliance. The expertise to manage and analyze budgets, financial projections, and cost controls. Familiarity with federal, state, and local tax regulations, especially payroll tax provisions. Proficiency in ERP systems, financial management software, and Microsoft Excel. Knowledge of risk management, fraud prevention, and internal control framework. Understanding of financial best practices and knowledge of capital management, financial planning, and liquidity management
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must be able to travel occasionally and work extended hours during peak financial periods.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
If you are a qualified individual with a disability, you have a right to request that the BJCTA make reasonable accommodations in order to help you accomplish your work, which must still be performed in all its essential functions.
EEO - EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F/D/V
The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran’s status, disability status, sexual orientation, sexual identity, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.
BJCTA is a Drug-Free/Smoke-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Department: Finance
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
FLSA Status: Exempt