American Friends of the Hebrew University Is Hiring A Controller

American Friends of The Hebrew University (AFHU) is dedicated to increasing awareness and support for The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel’s premier research institution and a leader in higher education. Through nationwide philanthropic efforts, AFHU helps the university attract top faculty, develop state-of-the-art facilities, provide scholarships, and advance groundbreaking research across numerous vital fields.

About AFHU

By nurturing Israel’s greatest natural resource — its people’s intellectual strength — AFHU contributes to major advancements in human health, agricultural innovation, brain science, and the arts and humanities, shaping a brighter future for all.

Position: Controller

AFHU is seeking a Controller to lead and manage the Accounting Department. This role involves ensuring accurate financial reporting, implementing internal controls, and improving processes. The position reports directly to the CFO/COO and operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Oversight: Manage accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, investment accounting, cash management, banking, budgets, fixed assets, grant accounting, financial systems, financial statement preparation, external audits, and tax filings.
• Leadership & Compliance: Provide direction to ensure the highest standards of financial accountability, compliance, policies, procedures, and reporting. Oversee the monthly and annual accounting calendar.
• Budget & Forecasting: Support the development of operating budgets, analyze variances, oversee forecasting, and collaborate with senior staff to meet financial goals.
• Process Improvement: Work with leadership to analyze business processes and performance metrics, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, timeliness, reliability, and collaboration.
• Reporting & Communication: Partner with the CFO/COO to communicate financial results to the Executive, Finance, and Audit committees of the Board of Trustees.
• External Relations: Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors and manage the audit process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Tax & Compliance Support: Oversee AFHU’s annual tax returns and surveys.
• Regional Collaboration & Projects: Support regional development officers with accounting, protocol, and statutory guidance. Manage special projects as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field
• CPA or Master’s Degree preferred, with at least 10 years of accounting experience, including 5+ years in a supervisory role. Non-profit experience is highly desirable.
• Proven experience with automated financial systems, accounting software, and financial analysis
• Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, with strong interpersonal abilities
• Demonstrated leadership, motivation, and team-building skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility and resilience under high-pressure situations
• Strong relationship management skills, capable of liaising across all levels
• Excellent analytical, research, and organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail

Join AFHU as we continue our mission to support one of Israel’s most vital institutions and contribute to groundbreaking global research and innovation! 🌎✨