Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary: $60,000 - $70,000
Job Description: Controller
Position Title: Controller
Reports To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Supervises: Accounting Clerk (and additional support staff as needed)
Location: Champaign, IL
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Position Summary
The Controller oversees all day-to-day accounting functions for both operating and escrow accounts within the company. This role ensures strict compliance with ALTA Best Practices, underwriter requirements, and state regulations. The Controller provides monthly financial reporting, forecasting, and budgeting support to the COO, while maintaining internal controls and supervising the Accounting Clerk. Although this position does not directly handle funds, the Controller is responsible for the sign-off on escrow reconciliations and the integrity of all financial records.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting & Financial Oversight
- Manage daily accounting operations for operating and escrow accounts.
- Approve journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements.
- Supervise and mentor the Accounting Clerk to ensure timely, accurate processing.
- Prepare and deliver monthly financial reports, including variance analysis.
- Provide cash flow projections and budgeting support to leadership.
Escrow & Compliance
- Oversee and sign off on three-way escrow reconciliations.
- Maintain compliance with underwriter guidelines, ALTA Best Practices, and state regulations.
- Serve as the primary contact for auditors and underwriter reviews.
- Ensure accounting procedures and policies align with industry standards.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Report directly to the COO with clear, concise financial insights.
- Supervise accounting staff to ensure efficient and accurate work.
- Collaborate with internal departments to provide financial clarity and reporting.
Controls & Risk Management
- Maintain and enforce strong internal controls to safeguard company assets.
- Approve financial activity within defined thresholds.
- Assist in developing and updating operating and escrow accounting procedures.
Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory/management role.
- Prior experience in a title/escrow, financial services, or regulated industry strongly preferred.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP and escrow accounting principles.
- Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work with confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive financial data.
Key Competencies
- Detail-Oriented: Ensures accuracy and compliance in all financial records.
- Leadership: Capable of supervising and developing staff.
- Analytical Thinker: Provides meaningful insights beyond reporting numbers.
- Integrity: Maintains strong ethical standards in escrow and operational oversight.
- Proactive: Anticipates financial challenges and provides timely solutions.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience.
-Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- 13 annual paid holidays
- Paid Time Off
- Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education.