Controller

On behalf of our client, Housing and Neighborhood Development Service (HANDS) located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Decision Associates is seeking applicants for the position of Controller. HANDS is a private not-for-profit organization who prides itself on making stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods. They have four dozen housing developments resulting in the production of more than 1,100 units of affordable housing in nine counties across Northwestern Pennsylvania.

Working on-site at their headquarters in Erie, Pennsylvania, the Controller will be responsible for developing accounting procedures and policies as well as overseeing all financial activity in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The Controller will provide fiscal and financial management and control for HANDS. To be successful in this role, the Controller must have in-depth knowledge of strategic accounting operations management, and experience with establishing long-range goals, strategies, plans, and policies. 

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of accounting for the organization
• Plan, develop, organize, implement, direct, and evaluate the organization’s fiscal function and performance
• Analyze the financial details of past and expected operations to identify development opportunities and area where improvement is needed and make recommendations
• Manage all insurance-related processes including renewals, updates, additions of coverage, and resolving claims
• Analyze and revise existing accounting processes to streamline operations and develop and document any new processes and accounting policies as needed 
• Conduct financial statement, budget, and long-term forecast interpretation and analysis, and make appropriate recommendations to President 
• Coordinate the preparation of the annual operating budget; ensure the budget is consistent with HUD, PHFA and other funders’ guidelines
• Manage and comply with local, state, and federal government financial reporting requirements, such as Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, United States Department of Agriculture, and the City of Erie
• Conduct internal audits to ensure compliance with state and federal requirements and statues and make recommendations for necessary changes
• Manage, coach, and train/develop department team members

Requirements

• At least five (5) years of multi-functional accounting experience is required, preferably with affordable housing or parallel experience, as a Controller or similar role
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or other related discipline. MBA and/or CPA highly desirable
• Understanding of nonprofit accounting, bookkeeping and financial management information, preferably for real estate development and property management
• Excellent organizational and concise communication skills as well as strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities
• Ability to simultaneously track and manage several projects at various locations
• Commitment to the mission of the organization
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and delegate responsibility
• High proficiency in common accounting software as well as Microsoft Office, especially Excel 

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental insurance
• 401(k) w/ match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Flexible Spending Account

HANDS Erie is an equal opportunity employer.