Keys School · 12 hours ago
Controller
Palo Alto, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$165K/yr - $180K/yr
5+ years expKeys School is a co-ed K-8 institution located in Silicon Valley, dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence and a sense of belonging among its students. The school is seeking a hands-on Controller to manage all accounting operations, budget management, payroll administration, and audit preparation, ensuring financial accuracy and compliance while supporting the school’s mission through effective financial stewardship.
Primary/Secondary Education
Hiring Manager
Mary Law
Responsibilities
Manage the general ledger and ensure timely and accurate recording of all financial transactions
Prepare detailed financial reports, including statements of financial position, activity, and cash flow, as well as analyses of historical and projected income and expenses
Perform monthly reconciliations, variance analyses, and forecasts
Oversee cash flow projections and reconcile bank and investment accounts
Maintain fixed asset and depreciation schedules and ensure accurate tracking of inventory
Lead the development of the annual operating and capital budgets in partnership with the CFOO and department heads
Support budget managers in tracking and analyzing performance against budget
Assist with long-range financial planning and scenario modeling
Oversee payroll processing, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and accuracy in all related reporting
Support the CFOO and HR in maintaining accurate employee data and managing benefit-related accounting
Serve as primary liaison with the school’s independent auditors (West Rhode & Roberts)
Prepare audit workpapers, schedules, and supporting documentation, and respond to recommendations
Manage preparation and filing of the school’s Form 990, Form 5500, and other required reports
Maintain documentation of accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls in compliance with GAAP and nonprofit best practices
Oversee student billing and collections, including management of past-due accounts
Support the issuance and collection of student enrollment and re-enrollment agreements
Partner with the Advancement Office to ensure proper recording and release of gifts according to donor intent
Oversee quarterly endowment reporting and accounting to ensure adherence to donor restrictions and investment policy
Collaborate with the CFOO to prepare investment performance reports and analysis for the Finance and Investment Committees
Complete periodic surveys and compliance reports for accrediting and professional associations (NAIS, CAIS, ISBOA)
Stay current on changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and independent school business operations
Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and reporting capabilities
Support adoption of modern, technology-based tools that strengthen financial systems and workflows
Serve as a key member of the Business Office team, modeling professionalism, collaboration, and discretion
Participate in school-wide meetings and events as needed
Perform other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field required
CPA or MBA preferred
5–7 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally in a nonprofit or educational setting
Proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office
Experience with integrated financial or HR systems preferred
Demonstrated success implementing or improving accounting systems and processes
Occasional availability on evenings or weekends during audit and budget cycles
Must maintain DOJ/FBI background and tuberculosis clearances and a valid driver's license
Benefits
Retirement plan employer contribution of 7% of annual salary
Excellent medical/dental/vision benefits
3 weeks vacation and additional 3 to 6 days personal time from first year of employment
Additional 80 hours paid sick leave annually
50% tuition discount for dependent children of employees.
Company
Keys School
Keys School challenges students to develop a keen intellect and a generous spirit, to advocate for themselves and others, and to honor curiosity and reflection in an increasingly hurried world.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase