Jobs at American Friends of The Hebrew University
Controller
Location: New York, NY
Type: Full Time
Min. Experience: Experienced
American Friends of The Hebrew University (AFHU) was founded to raise awareness of and support for The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel's research powerhouse and most accomplished institution on higher learning.
Through the philanthropic leadership of American Friends from coast to coast, AFHU helps the university to recruit and retain an outstanding faculty, build teaching and research facilities, provide scholarships and fellowships, and advance basic and applied research in myriad vital fields.
By nurturing one of Israel's greatest natural resources - the intellectual strength of its people - AFHU helps The Hebrew University to improve human health, foster agricultural innovation, spearhead breakthroughs in brain science and illuminate the world through the humanities
American Friends of Hebrew University (AFHU) seeks a Controller to provide leadership, direction and management to the Accounting Department, including timely and accurate financial reporting, implementation of effective internal controls and process enhancements. This position reports to the CFO/COO. It is a hands-on position in a fast-paced environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Through the philanthropic leadership of American Friends from coast to coast, AFHU helps the university to recruit and retain an outstanding faculty, build teaching and research facilities, provide scholarships and fellowships, and advance basic and applied research in myriad vital fields.
By nurturing one of Israel's greatest natural resources - the intellectual strength of its people - AFHU helps The Hebrew University to improve human health, foster agricultural innovation, spearhead breakthroughs in brain science and illuminate the world through the humanities
American Friends of Hebrew University (AFHU) seeks a Controller to provide leadership, direction and management to the Accounting Department, including timely and accurate financial reporting, implementation of effective internal controls and process enhancements. This position reports to the CFO/COO. It is a hands-on position in a fast-paced environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee key financial processes and reporting for the following functions: accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, investment accounting, cash management and banking, budgets, fixed asset accounting, grant accounting, financial systems, financial statement preparation, external audits and tax filings.
- Provide leadership and direction to ensure the highest level of financial accountability, compliance, policy and procedures, business systems, and financial reporting. The Controller will oversee the monthly and annual accounting calendar.
- Support the development of the operating budget, analyze variances, oversee forecasting and work closely with senior staff to ensure budget goals are met.
- Along with the CFO/COO, analyze business processes, and performance metrics to promote efficient and effective practices and foster a culture of continuous process improvement and best practices. The Controller will nurture a customer service orientation, emphasizing timeliness, reliability and collaboration.
- In conjunction with the CFO/COO, communicate results to the Executive, Finance and Audit committees of the Board of Trustees.
- Serve as liaison with external auditors and manage the audit process effectively to ensure accurate and timely completion.
- Oversee the preparation of AFHU’s annual tax returns and certain annual surveys.
- Interface with multiple regional development officers, providing accounting support, protocol and statutory guidance.
- Manage special projects.
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or related
- CPA or Master’s Degree preferred with 10 years of accounting experience, including at least 5 years in a supervisory position. Non-profit experience is strongly preferred
- Demonstrated experience with automated financial and accounting systems, accounting software, financial reporting and analysis
- Excellent oral and written communication skills with highly developed interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to lead, motivate and inspire team members
- Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
- Flexibility and ability to work in high-pressure, fast-paced environment
- Ability to successfully manage external relationships and liaise with colleagues at all levels
- Exceptional analytical, research, data collection, organization and time management skills; possess a strong attention to detail
