Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a hands-on leader and manager with a "big picture" vision to fill the limited-term position of Controller during an instrumental era of transformation for the agency as we embark on the implementation of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. The Controller will be a self-starter who possesses excellent communication, organizational, problem-solving skills, and the proven ability to identify solutions for business problems.
Under general direction of the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will assume full managerial responsibility for the Accounting Department consisting of 19 full-time employees, and be responsible for: external audit administration and financial reporting (e.g. preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report); general ledger maintenance; in-house payroll and tax reporting: grant billing and accounts receivable; accounts payable and other Accounting tasks. The Controller will collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer, Division Heads, Finance Managers and staff to pioneer best practices and streamline finance processes to support Agency activities. It is crucial that the Controller possess a strong knowledge of Government Accounting Standards, good judgment and decision-making skills, excellent communication skills, employee management and development skills, and a customer-service orientation to serve as a resource to all SCAG divisions.
IN THIS ROLE YOU CAN EXPECT TO:
- Assume management responsibility for all Accounting department services and activities: plan, direct, coordinate, and review the work plan in the Accounting department; meet with staff to identify and resolve problems; assign work activities, projects, and programs; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures.
- Prepare SCAG’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards, including implementation of new Accounting standards
- Review and approve accounting and financial transactions including memorandum of understanding, contracts, journal entries, accounts payable, accounts receivable, receipts, refunds, cash management functions
- Manage and participate in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for accounting and finance programs including the General Fund and all Special Revenue Funds
- Continuously monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; assess and monitor workload, administrative and support systems, and internal reporting relationships; identify opportunities for improvement and review with the Chief Financial Officer; direct the implementation of improvements
- Develop and standardize procedures, methods, and workflows to improve and continuously monitor the efficiency and workload of staff during the implementation of SCAG’s new ERP system
- Monitor costs and expenses approved by the Regional Council and other expenses that can only be charged to the General Fund; monitor dues collections from member jurisdictions; assume responsibility for long-term strategy and implementation to conserve the agency's financial reserves.
- Access financial data and information for preparation of reports pertaining to the General Fund, Special Revenue funds, and other reports to assess fund utilization by SCAG and use of resources available to SCAG. Monitor, record and report OPEB and Pension Obligations.
- Serve as a liaison for Accounting with the Regional Council, other SCAG departments and divisions, and outside agencies; negotiate and resolve significant and controversial issues.
- Communicate directly with Federal and State administrators, contractors, subregions and other vendors to discuss and resolve problems that affect SCAG's financial interest on an ongoing basis.
- Perform other duties as assigned
WHAT YOU'LL BRING TO THIS ROLE:
- A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 7 years of experience in government accounting, 4 years of management or direct supervisory experience, and a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. A CPA is highly desirable.
- Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
WE'LL BE A GREAT MATCH IF YOU ALSO HAVE:
- Knowledge of governmental accounting and auditing standards as prescribed by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board and the US Government Accountability Office
- Experience preparing and submitting the annual ACFR
- Knowledge of principles and practices of leadership
- The ability to strategically plan and coordinate the work of a department
- Knowledge of federal and state grant administration guidelines
- Experience in budget development and administration
- Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical information to all levels of staff and stakeholders
- High level of attention to detail with effective problem-solving skills
- The ability to identify opportunities for improvement and implement procedures to streamline processes
WHO WE ARE
As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.
As part of our Work@SCAG policy, employees are eligible for two work models: in-office and hybrid. Eligibility for these models will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties, as determined by management. All work models require employees to be based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to follow the hybrid model and be in the office 2 days per week.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
MISSION
To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.
VISION
- Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.
SCAG CORE VALUES
- Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative and transparent in the work we do.
- Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region.
- Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive.
- Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.
- Cultivate Belonging: Embrace differences, foster equity, champion inclusion, and empower all.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Please note, this is a continuous recruitment which means we will accept applications on a continuous basis. The first application review will take place on January 26, 2026 and the job posting may be closed at any time after that. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date.