Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Controller with strong CPA-level accounting expertise and fund accounting experience to lead the financial operations of the Association and serve as a trusted financial advisor to the General Manager and Board of Directors.
This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for ensuring the Association’s financial integrity, reporting, regulatory compliance,. Overseeing reserves and fund accounting, and supporting long-term financial planning for a sixteen-million-dollar residential community.
The Controller oversees all accounting and financial functions, including financial reporting, budgeting, fund accounting, cash management, reserve study financial analysis, internal controls, audits, and financial system administration. This role supervises accounting staff and plays a key role in strategic planning and financial decision-making for the community.
The ideal candidate brings deep technical accounting expertise, strong governance awareness, and experience working with boards and community associations or nonprofit organizations.

Work Environment
On-site position based in residential community in San Rafael, California
Full-time leadership role; flexible hours required on occasion, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
May be required to attend board meetings or make financial presentation

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategic Leadership & Guidance

Serve as the principal financial officer for the Association, advising the General Manager and Board of Directors on financial strategy, financial policy, and risk management.
Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
Lead annual budgeting process and long-range financial forecasting
Partner across departments to align financial and operational goals
Develop and maintain robust internal controls and accounting policies to safeguard Association assets and ensure financial accuracy. Perform cost-benefit analyses for major capital projects
Support investment and ancillary revenue initiatives

Financial Management & Fund Accounting

Maintain and oversee fund accounting structures for operating funds, reserve funds, and restricted capital funds.
Ensure accurate allocation of revenues, assessments, expenses, and capital expenditures across appropriate funds.
Prepare detailed variance analysis and management reports to support operational and strategic decision-making.
Ensure accounting practices comply with GAAP for common interest developments and homeowners’ associations.
Provide hands on support of Finance department.
Oversee all accounting functions including:
General ledger management
Accounts payable
Accounts receivable
Assessment billing and collections
Payroll accounting
Financial close and reporting

Cash Flow & Reserve Management

Monitors and manages cash flow; develop strategies to optimize cash management
Oversee assessment billing and collections of dues, assessments, and other financial obligations
Monitor liquidity and optimize working capital
Prepare the Funding Study portion of the Reserve Study
Oversee fixed assets and depreciation schedules
Ensure proper financial accounting for capital assets and reserve expenditures.

Compliance, Risk & Audit

Maintain strong internal controls to safeguard assets
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and HOA governing standards
Assesses financial risks and advise on mitigating actions
Serve as primary liaison for audits and tax filings; audit liaison for workers compensation and property insurance renewal

Financial Systems & Team Leadership

Supervise accounting team; provide ongoing training and development to staff
Optimize financial systems, accounting software and reporting automation
Partner with software providers and internal “super-users”
Works with the residential community in the use of automation tools

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) strongly preferred
• 10+ years of progressive financial leadership and accounting experience
• 5+ years managing teams
• Significant experience with fund accounting (Experience with HOA, nonprofit, or community association financial operations strongly preferred)
• Deep knowledge of GAAP and California HOA laws and regulations
• Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, reserve studies, and financial modeling
• Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills
• Proficiency with financial systems, online payment platforms, and association management platform
• High proficiency with accounting systems, Excel-based financial modeling, and reporting tools
• Ability to provide quality service to internal and external clients