Controller

Children's Land, based in the Chicagoland area, has been a trusted provider of early childhood education since 2005. With 11 locations, it serves over 1,500 students and employs more than 220 dedicated educators. Specializing in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, Children's Land provides education from infancy through kindergarten, consistently surpassing state standards, with its kindergarten graduates performing at a first-grade level.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Controller to oversee all accounting and financial functions for our multi-location childcare business. This role requires expertise in payroll, general accounting, per-location Profit & Loss (P&L) management, consolidated financial reporting, cash management, and compliance. The ideal candidate will also have experience working within childcare or education industries, ensuring compliance with CCAP, DCFS, and other applicable regulations. This position requires a proactive, organized individual who can manage all accounting responsibilities independently and support daycare-specific financial processes.

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Key Responsibilities

Payroll Management:

• Process bi-weekly payroll for 200+ employees across 11 locations, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

• Handle payroll taxes, deductions, benefits, and compliance with applicable labor laws.

• Reconcile payroll-related accounts and prepare necessary journal entries.

General Accounting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date general ledger records for all 11 locations.

• Record and reconcile accounts payable, receivable, and bank transactions.

• Perform monthly close processes, including journal entries and account reconciliations.

Financial Reporting:

• Prepare detailed P&L statements for each location, identifying variances and trends.

• Compile consolidated monthly financial reports for leadership review.

• Generate ad-hoc financial reports to support decision-making.

Cash Management:

• Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure operational needs are met.

• Forecast short-term and long-term cash requirements.

• Oversee banking activities, including deposits, transfers, and reconciliations.

Taxes:

• Prepare and file all required tax documents, including payroll, sales, and property taxes.

• Ensure timely and accurate tax payments.

• Stay updated on tax regulations and implement changes as needed to maintain compliance.

Accounting Oversight & Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal policies, and external regulations.

• Prepare and assist with year-end financials, audits, and tax documentation.

• Implement and maintain financial controls to safeguard company assets.

• Assure adherence to DCFS accounting guidelines and requirements.

Childcare-Specific Duties:

• Work with the CCAP Food Program: organize documents, assist directors with filing, and ensure compliance.

• Manage and oversee reimbursement processes for CCAP and food programs.

• Support Center Directors in organizing, maintaining, and auditing childcare financial records.

• Develop financial protocols tailored to daycare operations.

Business Support & Analysis:

• Provide insights on cost management, budgeting, and financial performance.

• Collaborate with leadership to develop strategies for financial growth and efficiency.

• Assist in evaluating childcare program profitability and operational improvements.

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Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA preferred.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in full-cycle accounting.

• Experience managing payroll for 100+ employees.

• Familiarity with CCAP, DCFS guidelines, and childcare financial management is highly preferred.

• Strong understanding of multi-location accounting, P&L reporting, and financial consolidations.

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite) and Microsoft Excel.

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational, and analytical skills.

• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with leadership and staff.

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Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Paid time off and holidays.

• Health insurance options.

• Opportunity to work in a growing, mission-driven organization that positively impacts families and communities.

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Work Schedule

• Full-time, Monday to Friday (40 hours/week). On-site presence required.