Controller
Finance
Description

About Hope Christian Schools
Our mission is to pray for, equip, and send Christ-centered, passionate leaders to change the world. We are a non-denominational, coeducational Christ-centered school in NE Albuquerque, serving families of children from preschool to high school. Since its founding in 1976, Hope Christian School has prayed for, equipped, and sent nearly 3,000 graduates to change the world. Annually, Hope Christian School educates approximately 1,400 students from Preschool through 12th grade. It is our privilege, honor, and responsibility to prepare these students to be tomorrow's leaders. We believe that all truth is God's truth. So God is not confined to Bible class, or weekly chapel. Rather all curricula is from a Biblical worldview, taught by faculty who love the Lord, in programs designed to educate the whole student, and with an unwavering commitment to follow God's will for Hope Christian School.


Terms: Full Time, 12-Months


Job Summary:  The Controller serves as the senior financial leader responsible for the day-to-day management, integrity, and accuracy of the school’s financial operations. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role oversees the Finance Department and ensures sound financial practices, strong internal controls, regulatory compliance, and accurate financial reporting. 


The Controller partners closely with the Executive Director to support strategic financial planning, budgeting, and long-term sustainability, while ensuring alignment with the school’s mission and stewardship values. 


Essential Functions:


Financial Management & Reporting 

  • Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and financial reporting.
  • Prepare and present accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
  • Ensure timely completion of year-end close and coordination of annual audits.
  • Maintain compliance with GAAP and applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Develop and maintain financial reporting tools to support organizational decision-making. 

Budgeting & Financial Planning

  • Lead the development and management of the annual budget in partnership with the Executive Director and senior leadership.
  • Monitor budget performance and provide variance analysis and recommendations.
  • Support long-term financial forecasting and sustainability planning.
  • Provide financial insights to support strategic initiatives and resource allocation. 

Internal Controls & Compliance 

  • Establish, implement, and maintain strong internal controls and financial policies.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local financial regulations.
  • Safeguard organizational assets and mitigate financial risk.
  • Oversee audit processes and implement recommendations for continuous improvement. 

Leadership & Department Oversight

  • Lead, supervise, and develop Finance Department staff.
  • Ensure efficient and effective financial operations and workflows.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, advancement, enrollment, athletics and operations.
  • Serve as a financial resource to department leaders and support budget accountability. 

Strategic & Executive Partnership 

  • Partner with the Executive Director to support financial strategy and Board reporting.
  • Assist in preparing financial reports, dashboards, and presentations for the Board of Directors.
  • Provide insight on financial implications of organizational decisions.
  • Support capital planning, major initiatives, and financial risk assessment.

Mission & Faith Alignment 

  • Model a mature Christian faith consistent with the school’s Statement of Faith.
  • Ensure financial practices reflect integrity, stewardship, and accountability.
  • Support the mission and values of the school through faithful financial leadership. 
Requirements
  • Must have received Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and demonstrate a personal and growing relationship with Him.
  • Reflect the mission and purpose of the school, which is to honor Christ in all aspects of education and community life.
  • Comply with all Hope Christian School policies and procedures and attend all required meetings and trainings including faculty meetings, staff chapels, in-service trainings, and required school functions.
  • Bachelor’s degree Accounting, Finance, or related field required (CPA or Master’s preferred).
  • 5 –10+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience (nonprofit, or education preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience in financial management, budgeting, and reporting.
  • Strong knowledge of GAAP and internal control practices.
  • Proven leadership and team management experience
  • High level of integrity, accuracy, and attention to detail
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

 Core Competencies

  • Financial management and reporting
  • Budgeting and forecasting
  • Internal controls and compliance
  • Organizational and systems thinking
  • Leadership and team development
  • Strategic financial partnership 
  • Integrity and stewardship

Work Expectations

  • Reports directly to the Executive Director
  • Leads and manages all Finance Department functions
  • Regular collaboration with senior leadership and Board as needed
  • Supports Board and Finance Committee reporting processes
  • Maintains confidentiality and high ethical standards
  • Occasional evening or extended hours during audit, budget season, or reporting cycles

Perks at Hope Christian Schools
Hope Christian Schools cares about our team members and we strive to provide benefits and resources to support their health, work/life balance, and future.

  • 95% paid medical premiums, 100% paid dental, vision premiums for full-time employees
  • Medical cost-savings: Health Reimbursement Arrangement
  • 100% Employer paid Basic Life
  • 403(b) Employer match dollar-for-dollar up to 4% income, 800+ investment options
  • Life Insurance and AD&D
  • Paid time off

Hope Christian Schools employs Christians who feel called of God to serve in the ministry of educating children based on Biblical standards.