Controller

Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Department: Finance & Accounting
FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary

The Controller is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and management of The Country Club of Birmingham’s accounting and financial operations. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller oversees financial reporting, general ledger accounting, budgeting support, internal controls, compliance, and the supervision of the Assistant Controller, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable. The Controller ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial information, maintains effective accounting processes, and provides financial analysis to support operational and strategic decision-making across all club departments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Accounting & Reporting

• Manage all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, and cash management.
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure proper account reconciliations and month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Maintain accounting records in accordance with GAAP and club accounting best practices.
• Assist the CFO with Board, Finance Committee, and executive financial reporting.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis

• Support the annual operating and capital budget process.
• Work with department managers to improve budgeting accuracy and cost control.
• Recommend strategies to improve revenues, manage expenses, and enhance profitability.

Cash Management & Member Accounting

• Oversee cash receipts, deposits, bank reconciliations, and cash controls.
• Manage member billing, collections, and accounts receivable processes.
• Monitor aging reports and maintain strong collection practices while supporting member satisfaction.
• Assist the CFO with cash flow planning and banking relationships.

Internal Controls, Audit & Compliance

• Establish and maintain effective internal controls and accounting procedures.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.
• Prepare and review sales tax, payroll tax, property tax, and other regulatory filings.
• Support risk management and safeguard club assets.

Leadership & Team Development

• Directly manage accounting department personnel, including Assistant Controller, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable staff.
• Mentor and develop staff to support succession planning and professional growth.
• Foster a culture of accountability, customer service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with department leaders to support operational goals and financial performance.

Accounting Operations Leadership

• Directly supervise the Assistant Controller, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable staff, ensuring efficient and accurate processing of transactions.
• Establish performance expectations, provide coaching, and conduct performance evaluations for accounting team members.
• Review and approve accounts payable disbursements, vendor payments, and member refunds.
• Monitor accounts receivable collections, member account aging, and collection efforts.
• Ensure proper segregation of duties and internal controls within AP and AR functions.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes, workflows, and efficiencies.

Cash Management & Member Accounting

• Oversee all member billing and statement processes.
• Review AR aging reports and work closely with membership and club leadership to address delinquent accounts.
• Ensure timely collection of member dues, assessments, event charges, and other club-related receivables.
• Supervise vendor payment schedules and maintain strong vendor relationships through timely and accurate payment processing.

Success Factors

• Accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Strong internal controls and audit results.
• Effective cash flow and working capital management.
• Budget compliance and financial performance improvement.
• Well-managed member billing and collections processes.
• Development and retention of accounting team members.
• Strong partnership with the CFO and operational leadership.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and bonus eligibility.

*The Country Club of Birmingham is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace for all employees.*

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• CPA designation preferred.

Experience

• 5-10 years of progressive accounting and finance experience.
• Prior experience in private clubs, country clubs, hospitality, resorts, hotels, restaurants, or related service industries strongly preferred.
• Previous supervisory or management experience required.
• Experience with budgeting, financial reporting, and audit coordination.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting principles.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software systems.
• Knowledge of private club financial operations and member accounting preferred.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic hospitality environment.
• High degree of professionalism, integrity, and discretion with confidential information.