Controller

Public Education & Business Coalition, a client of HR Birdie, is seeking a seasoned Controller to support their Mission and Vision.

WHAT THEY DO

Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC) is a Colorado-based 501(c)3 organization that provides professional development services for practicing educators locally and nationally and operates the PEBC Teacher Residency program that trains well-qualified new teachers for high-needs schools. PEBC’s goal is to provide training and professional learning to cultivate highly effective P-12 educators who are dedicated to students’ social, emotional and cultural needs as well as growth and achievement. PEBC works closely with practitioners, policymakers, business leaders and other stakeholders to advise the development and implementation of sound K-12 education policy. In our work with educators and as an employer, we adopt an asset-based approach to cultivating a collaborative community of learners. PEBC values responsive and reflective practice and operates in a culture of positive intention and respect.

The Mission of PEBC is to cultivate educators worthy of each and every learner.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The experienced and detail-oriented Controller will play a critical role in PEBC’s financial operations, ensuring the accuracy of PEBC’s books and records. This position oversees core financial functions including accounting, payroll, financial reporting, and compliance.

The Controller leads the Business Office and collaborates across departments to implement efficient financial processes, support budget development, and ensure accurate reporting. 

The Controller reports to the President/CEO. This is a full-time position based in Denver, CO, operating in a hybrid work setting.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

• Oversee all core accounting functions, including accounts payable, payroll processing, and credit card management.
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate financial statements and timely reporting to leadership.
• Prepare and monitor forecasts, and cash flow projections; provide budget-to-actual analysis to departments.
• Responsible for the processing of bi-monthly payroll, including preparation, reconciliation and data entry for accurate and timely processing. 
• Ensure compliance with audits, tax filings, retirement plan administration, and federal grant requirements.
• Oversee grant and contract accounting, including allocations, revenue reconciliation, and compliance with funding requirements.
• Implement and maintain efficient financial systems, processes, and internal controls to ensure accuracy and operational efficiency.
• Provide financial analysis to support organizational sustainability and decision-making.
• Educate and support staff on financial processes, reporting, and compliance requirements.
• Lead and manage the Business Office, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required, Master's degree preferred.
• 7–10 years of experience in an accounting role with progressive and cumulative experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience of relevant fiscal leadership.
• Minimum of 3 years working in a non-profit organization, 5 years preferred.
• Active CPA License preferred.
• Federal grant experience is strongly preferred.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ORGANIZATION

• Understanding of the nature of non-profit work and engagement in organizational opportunities, as needed, to strategically further the Mission and Vision of PEBC
• Non-profit work experience
• Grant experience
• Ability to work well independently and meet deadlines
• Openness to feedback with a lens on continuous improvement
• Strong data analysis, interpretation, reporting, modeling and forecasting skills
• Strong knowledge of office management functions and the ability to quickly learn new software and system applications: ability to streamline processes
• Ability to balance multiple responsibilities and projects 
• Demonstrated proficiency in SAGE, Google Suite and Microsoft, SalesForce, Zoom, etc.
• Ability to skillfully balance multiple responsibilities and projects while performing at a high level in a fast-paced environment

WHAT THE ORGANIZATION IS PROVIDING

• The expected starting annual salary range for this position is $130,000- $150,000. PEBC is committed to offering competitive and equitable compensation commensurate with experience and education.
• 403(b) plan with discretionary match
• Employee Health Benefits package which includes: Medical Insurance; Health Savings Account (HSA); Dental and Vision; Voluntary Life and AD&D benefits; Voluntary Disability Benefits; Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off – 12 days (prorated per full time employee)
• 11 paid holidays, including one floating holiday (prorated per full time employee)
• Paid sick leave
• PEBC has a flexible work environment where employees can choose to work from home or the office, with the approval of their Supervisor, and with at least occasional time in the office; residence in the state of Colorado is required

PEBC has a flexible work environment where employees can choose to work from home or the office, with the approval of their supervisor, and with at least occasional time in the office; residence in the state of Colorado is required for this position

PEBC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. In addition to federal law requirements, PEBC complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

PEBC will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants failing to disclose wage rate history in accordance with applicable law.

PEBC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable law.

PEBC expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of PEBC employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.