Controller

Application Deadline:

Priority deadline for applications is April 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET. After this date, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

About Ascend

Ascend is a network of high-performing public charter schools serving students across Brooklyn. Our mission is to ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to an education that empowers them to unlock their full potential, achieve academic excellence, and pursue a future of boundless opportunity. We cultivate rigorous learning environments where students develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

At Ascend, educational equity is a driving force. We are committed to closing the achievement gap by delivering high-quality instruction, fostering a culture of high expectations, and equipping every student with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in college and beyond. Through this unwavering commitment, we prepare students not only to succeed academically but to seize every opportunity that lies ahead.

About the Role

The Controller is a detail-oriented, self-motivated financial leader responsible for managing Ascend’s accounting operations and financial reporting. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller will oversee all accounting and controls operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and transparency. They will support an operating budget of approximately $160M and ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and internal controls.

The Controller will play a key role in shaping financial strategy, maintaining strong fiscal oversight, and implementing best practices in accounting policies and procedures. They will work closely with senior leadership and external partners, including auditors, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies.

Competencies

Deep Expertise in Nonprofit Accounting & Internal Controls

• Mastery of GAAP, fund accounting, and charter school finance regulations, including federal and state compliance, grant accounting, and restricted/unrestricted funds.
• Strong understanding of internal controls, audit readiness, and risk management to ensure clean audits and financial transparency.
• Skilled in financial reporting and forecasting, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with board and regulatory expectations.
• Translates financial concepts into compelling narratives that demonstrate the impact of financial stewardship on student outcomes.

Strategic Thinking & Operational Excellence

• Balances technical precision with strategic vision, ensuring that financial operations align with organizational goals.
• Identifies efficiencies in financial processes, leveraging technology and best practices to improve workflows and decision-making.
• Builds financial systems that support growth, agility, and long-term sustainability.
• Leads with extreme ownership, treating financial health as a lever for institutional success.

Relationship-Driven & Cross-Functional Partner

• Collaborates across departments (Finance, Talent, HR, Operations, Schools/Academics, Compliance) to ensure financial alignment with organizational needs.
• Builds trusted relationships with school leaders, ensuring financial policies support, rather than hinder, operational success.
• Communicates financial information in an accessible, non-technical manner, making financial literacy a shared organizational strength.
• Builds and develops a high-performing accounting team, ensuring growth, accountability, and excellence.

Purpose-Driven & Committed to Impact

• Anchors all financial decisions in the mission of serving students and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
• Ensures financial stewardship that balances fiscal responsibility with investment in people, programs, and student outcomes.
• Leads with integrity and a strong ethical foundation, ensuring that financial practices reflect the organization’s values.

Responsibilities, including, but not limited to:

• Manage financial records, including general ledger, subsidiary ledgers, and financial statements.
• Lead the monthly and annual close process, ensuring accuracy and GAAP compliance.
• Oversee grant accounting, restricted/unrestricted funds, and external financial reporting.
• Maintain internal controls to ensure audit readiness, mitigate risk, and safeguard financial integrity.
• Prepare and review financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow forecasts.
• Optimize cash flow through revenue cycle management, accounts receivable, and billing oversight.
• Ensure compliance with grant reporting and manage related financial activities.
• Develop financial forecasting models to support long-term sustainability and provide strategic insights.
• Identify process improvements to optimize financial workflows.
• Oversee annual audits, prepare documentation and schedules, and manage tax filings (e.g., IRS Form 990).
• Ensure compliance with debt reporting and banking covenants.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for auditors, financial regulators, and internal stakeholders.

Qualifications

• 7-10+ years of experience in nonprofit or charter school finance, with a strong leadership background in accounting and internal controls.
• CPA (preferred) or MBA in Accounting/Finance.
• Advanced proficiency in accounting systems (e.g., Intacct, NetSuite, Adaptive, Workday, Coupa), financial reporting tools, and compliance frameworks.
• Demonstrated success in building and leading high-performing accounting teams and fostering strong cross-functional collaborations.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary will range between $180,000 and $200,000 annually, commensurate with the level of experience.

This full-time, exempt position offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching
• Generous paid time off and additional employee benefits

Location & Work Arrangement

Based in our Brooklyn, NY office

Our hybrid work schedule requires in-office presence at least three days per week.

Ascend is committed to building a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and anti-racist community through its hiring practices and focus on creating a culture and environment where diverse perspectives, ideas, and identities are valued and integrated into its approach to educating students. Ascend staff represent a wide diversity of racial, socio-economic, gender, religious, and national identities—opening a window to the entire Ascend community on the richness of humanity. Ascend Charter Schools welcomes all applicants who share their mission and vision. To learn more about Ascend’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, please visit: https://www.ascendlearning.org/diversity-equity-inclusion-and-anti-racism