Controller: People’s Light

People’s Light, a LORT D theater located outside of Philadelphia, seeks an experienced Controller. Now in its 49th season, People’s Light is a nationally recognized and award-winning theatre company located in Chester County, PA. People’s Light also owns and operates The Farmhouse at People’s Light, a for-profit catering venue, and The Fern & Fable restaurant.

Reporting to the General Manager (GM), the Controller oversees all accounting and related financial reporting systems, ensuring accuracy and internal controls, as well as compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements.

The Controller is responsible for managing the daily operations of the Finance Department including supervision of staff who perform accounts payable, payroll processing, bank reconciliations, daily cash receipt functions, and monthly financial reports.

The Controller will work with General Manager (GM), Producing Artistic Director, senior staff, and department heads in developing the Annual Budget and keep accurate budget projections.

The Controller will take the lead in preparing for and working with all external audits, as well as all regulatory filings. They are responsible for establishing, monitoring, and enforcing internal controls to protect the organization’s assets.

This is a full-time salaried exempt position. People’s Light aims to provide flexibility with in-person work where possible. This position is expected to be in-person at least three days per week. Full vaccination against Covid-19 is required.

Responsibilities include:

• Supervise Staff Accountant (responsible for payroll processing, accounts payable and cash tracking) and Senior Accountant & Benefits Specialist (responsible for bank reconciliations, monthly close and company health benefits)
• Track and report on restricted funds and certain prepaid expense funds
• Supervise preparation of monthly financial statements and submit to General Manager
• Report on financial matters at five board meetings per year
• Track, analyze and report weekly cash flow to General Manager
• Investigate and discuss budget to actual differences with General Manager and department managers
• Prepare budget projections as needed
• Complete financial surveys
• Work with General Manager and outside broker on annual insurance coverage renewal
• Work with Development Manager on grant budgets
• Work with General Manager on cash flow analysis and planning
• Lead all external audits, and tax preparation and reporting processes, in collaboration with the board audit committee, General Manager, Finance Team, and outside audit and tax firm
• Monitor internal controls and propose/implement new controls as necessary
• Maintain up-to-date oversight and compliance on non-profit best practices and federal and state laws regarding non-profit operations

Skills and Knowledge:

• Bachelors in Accounting, Finance or Business required, CPA/MBA preferred
• Years of experience: 5 minimum, 10 years preferred
• Experience and knowledge of GAAP required, non-profit experience preferred
• Experience with general ledger software and Microsoft Excel proficiency required
• Attention to detail, the ability to exercise discretion and strong organization skills are essential
• Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment, strong communication skills and problem-solving ability are all necessary
• A commitment to Equity and Inclusion

Equal Opportunity Employment

People’s Light is an equal opportunity employer. We work to cultivate a deep and wide reach in order to connect with prospective employees who have varied experiences and skills, a collaborative attitude, and the capacity and desire for growth.

Non-Discrimination Hiring Policy

People’s Light seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of our commitment to create an antiracist, socially just, and inclusive presence in Chester County and our surrounding community. People’s Light does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Applicants from populations historically underrepresented in the theatre field are strongly encouraged to apply.

Salary will be in the range of $70,000 – $75,000. Benefits will include the following:

• Medical/dental/life/disability insurance plans (employee coverage 100% funded)
• Defined Contribution Plan through TIAA-CREF with employer contributions after 1 year