Job Description

Positions in the central (State) office provide services and leadership to ensure that employees can remain mission driven and support the efforts to uphold the necessary standards of legal representation.

Regardless of job position, we are all Defenders.

GENERAL SUMMARY:

In support of our mission, the Controller provides direction, leadership, development, planning, and implementation for the financial services teams under the strategic direction of Chief Financial Officer. The work involves consulting on program objectives; coordinating organizational and operational components of OSPD; developing policies that govern financial systems; and allocating human, fiscal, operating, and capital resources.  The position requires broad knowledge and technical expertise to lead the day-to-day operations of OSPD’s financial services including, but not limited to accounting, financial systems, payroll, audits, contract management, and procurement.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate traits that are key to success in the role of Controller at OSPD:

• Excellent Leadership – As demonstrated by inspiring others and driving strategic objectives.
• Hands-On Work – Willingness to get directly involved in the work and being an active contributor.
• Willingness to Learn – Having a growth mindset, seeking opportunities for development and continuously learning.
• Teamwork and Collaboration – Work effectively as part of a team, understanding the dynamics of collaboration and respecting diverse viewpoints.
• Adaptability and Flexibility – Adapt to new challenges, demonstrating and leading with resilience and the ability to embrace change.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

(Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.  Unless noted, all listed duties and responsibilities are considered essential functions.)

Management of Financial Services

• Serves as the Controller and contact for all financial data requests, reporting, and external financial and/or performance audits for the State Controller’s Office and State Auditor’s Office.
• Provides direction and oversight of internal audits and works with external auditors on an annual basis, or as requested.  Development of audit standards and processes.
• Oversee all accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems ensuring compliance with the State’s Fiscal Rules and Procedures.
• Performs balance sheet and financial transactions in the State’s CORE accounting systems; accounts payable; opening and monthly, quarterly and yearly close of the OSPD’s books; prepares financial statements and reports; and ensures compliance with OSPD’s internal controls.
• Ensures policies and procedures comply with applicable federal and state laws and regulations, fiscal rules and procedures, and internal policies and procedures.
• Directs and oversees the administration of OSPD’s finance and related policies, procedures and communications in the following areas, assists staff in resolving issues as needed.

Functional Area Responsibilities

• Accounting:
  • Review and approval of financial transactions in the State’s CORE accounting systems; accounts payable; monthly, quarterly and yearly close of the books; credit card administration; cash receipts; costs and expenditures
• Payroll:
  • Use of the State’s CPPS system for payroll transactions; payroll adjustments; and review, approval and reconciliation of monthly, biweekly, and year end payroll processes and expenditures.
• Contracts and procurement:
  • Review purchases to ensure compliance with guidelines and procedures.; Research and negotiation of leases, products and services, pricing, and contract terms; and vendor performance, contracts and services approvals.
• Travel program:
  • Development and maintenance of policies and procedures, approval processes, travel arrangements and reimbursement rates in compliance with the State Travel Fiscal Rules.  Review and approval of vendor contracts; and analysis of price proposals, financial reports and related data to ensure cost efficiencies.

Supervision

• Directs the financial services team in the implementation and administration of finance programs and activities including accounting and financial analysis, procurement, and payroll.
• Directs the financial services team to include: prioritizing and assigning work; conducting performance evaluations; ensuring employees are trained; ensuring that employees follow policies and procedures; and, making hiring, termination, and disciplinary decisions/approvals.
• Direct reports include lead and supervisory levels.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  In collaboration with leadership teams and human resources, ensures compliance with employment laws and practices to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the areas of recruitment, hiring and promotional opportunities; employee recognition; training and development; and, encouraging full utilization of employees’ skills and talents.