Title: Financial Controller

Classification: Exempt

Reports to: Executive Pastor

Location: Lutz, FL

Objective:

The Financial Controller is responsible for all aspects of the financial operations for Idlewild Baptist Church. Reporting directly to the Executive Pastor, the Financial Controller provides accounting, budgetary, financial planning and analysis, and financial operational and programmatic support to all Church programs and ministries. The Financial Controller directly oversees and supervises the financial/accounting staff and other departments as directed by the Executive Pastor.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee all accounts, ledgers, financial software and reporting systems ensuring policies and procedures are in compliance with appropriate GAAP standards and regulatory requirements.

• With the Executive Pastor serve as the lead of the Finance Committee and their related subcommittees.

• Consistently analyze financial data and present financial reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements; monitor progress and changes and keep senior leadership abreast of Idlewild’s financial status.

• Provide strategic vision, planning and oversight of Idlewild’s financial outlook.

• Manage finance department personnel to include hiring, training, delegation of duties and performance management.

• Ensure a productive work environment within the finance and accounting function.

• Provide staff training in the areas of budget development, budget management, fiscal accountability, and finance procedures.

• Oversee an inclusive process to establish an annual operating budget for Idlewild.

• Lead organizational planning and development of operating and fund account budgets, and control expenditures against budget.

• Participate in leadership meetings to discuss direction of the Idlewild and present financial data.

• Work closely with leadership to:

  • a) maintain, analyze, and interpret general ledger for all funds;

  • b) manage the preparation and analysis of financial reports on a monthly and as needed basis.

• Work with external auditors to prepare and review audit schedules and annual report of audit findings.

• Oversee the process for identifying and evaluating opportunities for improved financial operations, record keeping and reporting.

• Ensure the maintenance of financial records and record keeping systems, including restricted fund accounting, to ensure compliance with all regulations, generally accepted accounting practices and requirements.

Knowledge Of:

• Deep knowledge of and experience with NetSuite Oracle.

• General accounting and financial reporting procedures in accordance with GAAP.

• Payroll reporting, processing, and processing of payroll.

• General office software, particularly Microsoft Office Suite, and accounting software packages (preferably NetSuite).

• Extensive experience with Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel).

• High written and verbal communication skills.

• Church Ministry (Southern Baptist preferred) knowledge.

• Working with and/or leading a church Finance Committee or similar body within a church or not for profit organization.

Ability To:

• Manage and oversee all aspects of the financial/accounting function from day to day to strategic planning.

• Create, analyze and report on financial statements and provide FP&A.

• Supervise staff, develop position descriptions and provide Ministry Effectiveness Evaluations and improvement plans.

• Analyze and solve problems effectively.

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Work well with, and be responsive to the needs of staff and the Finance Committee.

• Manage priorities effectively to meet deadlines and demonstrate multi-tasking.

• Assimilate new information.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university; with master’s degree preferred.

• Five to seven years of senior management experience with organizations with operations in excess of $5 million per year and over 100 employees, preferably with a church or non-profit.

• Certified Public Accountant designation.

• Experience managing staff of both exempt and nonexempt employees.

Other:

• Must be: Trustworthy, highly ethical with a high level of integrity, self-motivated, dependable, and detail oriented.

• Must model the Idlewild core values and mission.

• Must be a fully engaged member of Idlewild, tithing, regular attendance in worship services and a small group Bible study, and serving in ministry beyond the position description responsibilities.

• Must be able to interface easily with staff, other senior management personnel, Finance Committee, key volunteers, and members.

• Must be able to work long hours at times and meet routine office physical demands including climbing stairs, carrying up to 20-pound objects and possessing the dexterity and vision to operate office computers and equipment.

Medical/Dental: 100% covered for employees and dependents

Retirement, HSA contribution

Vacation time based on experience/tenure beginning with 2 weeks in addition to sick time

Desired Characteristics:

Character

• Integrity – Demonstrates honesty, ethical behavior, and a commitment to the church's mission and values.

• Faith-Driven – Strong personal faith and alignment with the church's beliefs, with a heart for ministry.

• Servant Leadership – Leads with humility, prioritizing the needs of the church and its members.

• Reliability – Dependable and consistent in fulfilling responsibilities with accuracy and timeliness.

• Discernment – Exercises sound judgment and wisdom in financial decision-making.

• Collaboration – Works well with others, fostering unity among staff, volunteers, and ministry leaders.

• Adaptability – Flexible and able to navigate changes in priorities or unexpected challenges.

• Attention to Detail – Focused and meticulous in managing financial records and compliance.

• Stewardship – Demonstrates a deep sense of responsibility in managing the church's financial resources.

• Empathy – Approaches interactions with understanding and compassion, reflecting Christ-like values.

Competence

Financial Expertise

• Accounting Knowledge – Strong understanding of GAAP, fund accounting, and church-specific financial practices.

• Financial Planning – Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial strategy.

• Reporting – Proficient in preparing financial statements, reports, and presentations for leadership and the congregation.

• Internal Controls – Experienced in developing and enforcing policies to ensure financial accuracy and safeguard assets.

• Regulatory Compliance – Familiar with IRS regulations for non-profits and churches, including tax-exempt status.

 Leadership and Management

• Team Leadership – Ability to lead and mentor finance and accounting staff, fostering professional growth.

• Strategic Thinking – Capable of aligning financial goals with the church’s mission and long-term vision.

• Problem-Solving – Skilled at identifying financial challenges and implementing effective solutions.

• Project Management – Organized and efficient in managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Technical Proficiency

• Accounting Software – Deep knowledge of and experience with NetSuite Oracle.

Chemistry with the Culture

Idlewild fosters a positive, hard-working environment where team members view their work as a response to God’s calling in their lives. The organization is deeply rooted in a Christ-centered mission, emphasizing humility, dedication, and service in every role. While work-life balance is valued and encouraged, team members are expected to work diligently and with excellence.

The culture at Idlewild prioritizes servant leadership, collaboration, and a focus on advancing God’s kingdom. Individuals who thrive here are humble, adaptable, and willing to step into any task, whether leading a team or contributing to hands-on daily projects. Leaders who prioritize service over authority and demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow are the best fit for this environment. Conversely, those who are rigid, overly directive, or resistant to collaboration may struggle in this role.

The ideal candidate will bring a humble attitude and a servant’s heart, fully committed to giving their best for the advancement of God’s kingdom. Leadership skills are essential, but this person must also be ready to engage directly in daily projects and tasks as part of a dynamic and purpose-driven team.