JOB TITLE: Controller
EMPLOYEE DEFINITION: Administrator
CONTRACT TYPE: Administrator Contract 12-month schedule
DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Chief Financial Officer
PRIMARY DEPARTMENT: Finance
HOME DIVISION: Business and Operations

JOB SUMMARY

The Financial Controller is a key leadership role within the Business Office at Taipei American School (TAS), responsible for managing and enhancing all financial and business operational functions that support the school’s mission. The position oversees core financial operations including accounting, budgeting, procurement, warehouse and student store operations (Tiger Shop), as well as compliance with Taiwan and U.S. tax regulations. The Controller also plays a critical role in implementing the business modules of an open-source ERP system, establishing effective internal controls, and developing sound accounting processes and workflows to ensure data integrity and operational excellence. This role ensures financial transparency, regulatory compliance, and high-performance support in alignment with best practices in U.S. independent schools.

Furthermore, the Controller upholds and fosters throughout the team all the qualities inherent in TAS’s mission. The Controller creates within the team an environment of open communication, trust, and teachability. While mistakes will need to be quickly rectified, so that work outputs will continue to abide by the highest standards, mistakes will also be seen as an opportunity for growth and improvement, rather than an excuse for sanction. In his/her work circle, the Controller will encourage well-being, professional growth and will contribute to make the world a better place. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Financial Operations Oversight

• Manage daily financial operations including:
  • Month-End and Year-End Close & Reporting – ensure monthly financial closing is completed on time with precision, accuracy, and producing reliable financial statements that meet internal standards and external audit requirements.
  • Tuition Billing & Accounts Receivable – oversees the full tuition revenue cycle, including billing, payment schedules, invoicing, reconciliations, adjustments, and the collection of tuition and fees. Ensure timely follow-up on outstanding balances and maintain clear, professional communication with families regarding billing issues and payment status.
  • Procurement – Oversees the full purchasing cycle, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, purchase order approvals, and compliance with school procurement policies. Ensure that purchasing activities are cost-effective, transparent, and aligned with budget goals.
  • Tiger Shop Operations – Manages the Tiger Shop student store, including inventory control, sales, financial reporting, and overall business performance.
  • Vendor payments and proper expense recording.
  • Payroll – oversees salary payments, tax withholdings, and benefits processing in compliance with U.S. and Taiwan laws and school policies. 
  • Warehouse and materials – oversees warehouse operations, including inventory control, supply chain coordination, and materials management. Ensure stock levels and streamline inventory process. 
• Maintain Internal Controls and Financial Procedures– Maintain and continuously improve internal controls and financial procedures to safeguard school assets, ensure compliance with accounting standards, and optimize best practices for effective and efficient financial management.
• Review the financial section of Hope Scholarship and tuition deferment program applications to assess completeness and provide justification for funding decisions. Offer clear, constructive comments to support the selection process and ensure financial transparency.
• Maintain bank relations as a strategic partner, ensuring access to financial services, credit facilities, and favorable terms. 
• Manage currency exchange operations to meet cross-border and operational business needs efficiently.

Parent & Employee Communication

• Parent Communication & Tuition Collection 
  • Serve as the point of contact for sensitive financial matters involving families.
  • Communicate professionally with parents regarding unpaid tuition and billing discrepancies.
  • Coordinate with Admissions and Advancement on enrollment-related financial processes.
• Collaborate with the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) - Collaborate with the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) to provide support on tax and accounting questions related to PTA events and initiatives.
• Employee Financial Communication
  • Engage with department and budget managers to review, clarify, and advise on their budget performance and allocations.
  • Provide timely and accurate responses to employee inquiries regarding payroll, tax withholdings, and related deductions.
  • Educate employees on the school’s retirement and contribution plans, ensuring clear understanding of eligibility, enrollment procedures, and benefits.
  • Foster open, supportive communication channels between the Business Office and all school staff. 

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Support the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in leading the annual schoolwide budgeting process, collaborating with leadership and department heads.
• Collaborate with the CFO on consolidated budget.
• Monitor budget performance and provide variance analysis, forecasting, and recommendations as needed.
• Assist CFO in long-term financial planning and capital project analysis.

Audit & Tax Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Taiwan and U.S. tax laws, including the accurate and error-free preparation and on-time filing of all required returns.
• Represent the school in communications with the IRS and other tax authorities and provide appropriate solutions and documentation in response to tax-related queries or issues.
• Manage the annual external audit process, coordinate schedules, and prepare audit documentation.
• Implement audit recommendations and monitor adherence to internal controls.
• Coordinate the preparation of U.S. IRS Form 990, working closely with auditors and the Audit Committee to ensure accurate reporting and the continued preservation of the school’s non-profit status.

Committee & Governance Support

• Attend Board Committee meetings as requested by the CFO, as a representative of the Business Office.
• Assist the CFO in preparing presentation materials, financial reports, and supporting documentation for committee review.
• Respond to committee member questions during meetings and follow up on outstanding items or requests for additional information in a timely and thorough manner.

System Design, Implementation, and Optimization

• Work with consultants to design, implement, and continuously improve a school-wide ERP system, integrating digitalization tools to streamline financial and operational workflows.
• Ensure data integrity and provide training to finance office staff and end users on the effective use of these digital tools.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and operations team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, professional development, and customer service excellence, as well as a balanced pleasant work environment.
• Conduct staff evaluations and identify training needs, as well as professional growth opportunities

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS AND ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES:

Knowledge, Experience and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field. Taiwan and/or U.S. CPA or equivalent certification strongly preferred.
• 7–10 years of progressively responsible financial management experience, ideally in an independent school, or nonprofit.
• Solid understanding of U.S. and Taiwan GAAP, non-profit tax codes, and audit procedures.
• Proven leadership in financial operations, including AR/AP, billing, payroll, and procurement.
• Experience handling tuition collection and sensitive family communications.
• Strong systems experience; prior open ERP system highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, with proficiency in both English and Mandarin.
• Familiarity with fund accounting and non-profit financial practices preferred.
• Experience in an international school or culturally diverse environment preferred.
• Demonstrated initiative in process improvement and team leadership preferred.

Essential Competencies and KPIs

• Technical Accounting Skills:

The Financial Controller must possess a deep-rooted knowledge of accounting principles, including U.S. and Taiwan GAAP, non-profit tax codes, and audit procedures. This competency ensures accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and effective management of financial operations.

• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:

Strong analytical skills are crucial for interpreting financial data, identifying trends, and making informed decisions. The ability to solve complex financial issues and optimize processes is essential for maintaining operational excellence and data integrity.

• Leadership and Management Skills:

Proven leadership in managing financial operations, including accounts receivable/payable, billing, payroll, and procurement. The ability to supervise, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and operations team is vital for fostering a culture of accountability and professional growth.

• Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

Excellent communication skills are necessary for engaging with parents, employees, and board members. The Financial Controller must be able to convey complex financial information clearly and professionally, handle sensitive family communications, and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.

• Technological Proficiency:

Strong systems experience, particularly with open ERP systems, is highly desirable. The ability to design, implement, and continuously improve digital tools to streamline financial and operational workflows is critical for ensuring data integrity and operational efficiency.

To Apply

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and contact information for three professional references through the online link below. Please note that direct applications via email or other channels will not be considered.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as Taipei American School reserves the right to close the selection process at any time.