Controller

Milton Hershey School (MHS) is one of the world's best pre-K through 12th grade private schools, where students from disadvantaged backgrounds are provided with a cost-free home and a top-notch education. Thanks to the generosity of Milton and Catherine Hershey in 1909, the school is fully endowed today, with the resources to ensure students can thrive. The school has prepared over 12,000 graduates to lead fulfilling and productive lives and is expanding to serve more students.

MHS is seeking a Controller (Senior Director of Accounting and Taxes) to oversee the school's financial operations - ensuring accuracy, accountability and compliance with all applicable standards and regulations. This role manages all accounting functions including payroll administration, accounts payable and receivable processing, internal controls, and preparation for annual audits and tax filings. The Controller collaborates extensively with leadership to provide strategic financial guidance, enhance financial controls, and support MHS's mission-driven initiatives with a high degree of stewardship. This position is also responsible for leading the team through organizational changes, ensures adherence to evolving regulatory requirements and reporting standards, and operational enhancements.

Additionally, the Controller manages relationships and ensures accurate transactions across partnering Hershey entities and related associations through shared services. These responsibilities extend to Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning, to ensure accurate and efficient practices.

This is an onsite position that compensates between $145,000 and $193,000, depending upon years of experience, and includes an excellent benefits package.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance; CPA required.
• Experience: Minimum of 8 years in an accounting or financial role with experience with GAAP, payroll, tax, internal controls, and accounting processes.
• Technical Skills: Proficient with Microsoft Suite and databases, and advanced functional knowledge of ERP systems. (PeopleSoft experience is a plus).
• Financial Expertise: In depth knowledge of GAAP, payroll, labor laws, tax compliance, internal control frameworks, audit processes and risk management principles.
• Audit & Controls: Experience overseeing audits and implementing/evaluating internal controls.
• Management Skills: Supervisory experience and strong organizational leadership and team management skills.
• Attention to Detail: Excellent analytical skills ensuring accuracy and precision in financial reporting and processing. Demonstrated critical thinker with sound judgement.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills, with the ability to lead cross-functionally and provide complex financial information effectively.
• Work Style: Highly motivated, proactive, results-driven collaborative problem-solver.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to strategically set priorities and oversee multiple priorities and deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Commitment to Excellence: High standards for quality and performance.
• Integrity & Engagement: Must uphold strong ethical standards, serving as a role model for students. Candidates should also be eager to actively engage with students.