HIRING – Controller

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Job Description: CONTROLLER

Job Summary:

Oversees the Accounting, Financial and Human Resource Operations of the Washington Apple Commission.

Company Description:

The Washington Apple Commission (WAC) is an industry-funded agency of the State of Washington Department of Agriculture and represents the 1,260 apple growers in Washington State.  WAC conducts promotions in over 25 global markets to drive consumer demand of the many apple varieties from Washington State.  The Washington Apple Commission provides promotional support to international retailers, wholesalers and importers with innovative marketing programs and activities to grow consumer awareness and brand loyalty.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Oversees, manages, and administers all Commission finances. Keeps clear and accurate records of all transactions, has final responsibility for account accuracy, manages Commission portfolio and investments to maximize returns.

 

  • Monitors Commission budget performance. Prepares monthly variance reports, cash flow projections and individual Export country budget reports for management. Monitors working capital and Board designated reserves.  Prepares monthly financial statements and presents results to staff, management and Board.

 

  • Oversees Operations Committee and attends all Commission Board meetings to present and discuss financial statements, status of budgets and other operational issues.

 

  • Oversees all accounting duties such as accounts payable and receivable, assessment billing, general ledger, Export wire transfers, Federal grant reimbursements and other accounting functions. Approves invoices submitted for payment, ensures compliance with Federal and State regulations as well as Commission policies & procedures and signs all checks to be released.

 

  • Manages Administrative staff, Facility operations and coordinates workflow.

 

  • Performs all payroll and tax reporting functions. Processes semi-monthly payroll, quarterly and yearly reports.  Prepares and files Federal and State taxes.  Handles employee retirement, deferred compensation, and other required deductions and reporting.  Oversees 1099 reporting and ensures that annual W-2s are processed and distributed in a timely manner.

 

  • Contract Management. Develop and update all WAC Contracts with International Representatives and Vendors.  Obtain required Department of Enterprise Services (DES) contract training, Manage Designated Authority and SAM registrations annually.  Administer contract solicitations.  Update Contracting and Fraud procedures annually for FAS (Foreign Agricultural Service).

 

  • Analyzes commercial insurance coverage, costs, risk, and premiums annually. Coordinates annual renewal and payment procedures with insurance provider and WA State Risk Management.

 

  • Coordinates with both Washington State and Federal auditors in preparation of their annual audits of the Commission. Prepare all audit workpapers, AJE’s, and complete financial statement package for review.

 

  • Acts as Human Resource Director for the Commission. Handles all HR and personnel issues including company policies, benefit programs, compensation issues, capital budgets, employee recruitment and employee training.  Updates job descriptions, administers performance appraisal programs, mediates conflicts, counsels employees, and ensures compliance with applicable laws.  Manages Commissioner Elections.

 

  • Point of contact for Assistant Attorney General, Labor & Personnel Attorney and Trademark Attorney.

 

  • Oversees trademark registrations by country and initiates any opposition to trademark violations.

 

  • Acts as Records Officer for the Commission. Handles any Public Information Requests and maintains Record Retention Schedule.

 

Qualifications and Skills:

 

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or equivalent and 5 or more years’ experience required. CPA a plus.

 

  • Demonstrated ability to manage assets and accounts, oversee accounting operations and handle a wide variety of duties including account management and analysis.

 

  • Experience in cash management and budgeting as well as analytical ability to develop and implement improvements or recommendations.

 

  • Excellent computer skills; experience with accounting software, and proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

 

  • Able to work well with Management, Commissioners and Team as well as mentor/lead other
    Team members.

 

  • Knowledge or experience with the apple industry is a plus.

 

Benefits:

 

  • Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB program): Medical, Vision, Dental, Life, and Long-term Disability Insurance

 

  • Washington State Retirement Program (PERS Pension Plan)

 

  • State Deferred Compensation Plan (401K Contribution)

 

  • Respectful and pleasant workplace environment

 

If Interested in Applying:

 

Please email your resume and cover letter to hr@waapple.org by April 28, 2023.  In your cover letter, please describe your experience with the qualifications listed above detailing your specific skills that would be an asset to the Washington Apple Commission in the Controller role.

Equal Opportunity provider and employer.