The Controller serves as the department’s chief accounting officer and is responsible for the oversight, integrity, and standardization of all accounting functions across the South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. This position leads department-wide accounting operations, establishes financial controls, and ensures compliance with all applicable governmental accounting standards.
The Controller provides strategic direction for accounting policies, financial reporting, and internal controls across a complex system that includes mental health centers, regional disability service centers, autism residential homes, and state operated hospitals.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting Operations and Oversight 30%
•Direct and manage all department wide accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination, fixed asset management, capital project accounting and financial reporting. Supervise central accounting staff and provide technical guidance to regional and facility level finance personnel.
•Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of all financial transactions and reporting activities
•Oversee month end and year end close processes across all divisions and facilities
Financial Reporting 25%
•Lead the preparation of comprehensive financial statements and reports in accordance with governmental accounting standards
•Ensure compliance with reporting requirements set forth by state oversight bodies and applicable federal agencies
•Coordinate the consolidation of financial data across all programs and facilities
Internal Controls and Compliance 15%
•Design, implement, and maintain a robust system of internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure financial integrity
•Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements, and state financial policies
•Monitor adherence to accounting policies and procedures across all regions and facilities
Audit Coordination 15%
•Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and oversight entities
•Lead the preparation for annual financial audits, Single Audits, and other reviews
•Ensure timely resolution of audit findings and implementation of corrective actions
Policy Development and Standardization 10%
•Develop, implement, and maintain standardized accounting policies and procedures across the department (SOW’s, SOP’s, etc.)
•Promote consistency in accounting practices across mental health, disability services, autism services, and hospital operations. Identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve reporting capabilities, and enhance data integrity
•Continuously evaluate and improve accounting systems and processes and support implementation of new financial systems or upgrades as needed.
Performs other duties as assigned 5%
•Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
•Extensive experience in accounting, financial reporting, or governmental finance
•Demonstrated experience managing complex accounting operations
•Previous Senior Leadership Experience in management of a sizeable Accounting Staff
•Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation
•Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
•Experience with governmental accounting and GASB standards
•Experience in healthcare, behavioral health, or public sector environments
•Deep knowledge of GAAP, GASB, and governmental accounting principles
•Strong understanding of internal controls and audit processes
•Ability to manage large scale, multi-entity accounting systems
•High level attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
•Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
Work Environment
This position is primarily office based with coordination responsibilities across central office and regional operations. Occasional travel may be required.
Impact of the Role
The Controller is critical in ensuring the financial integrity and transparency of the department. By establishing strong accounting standards and controls, this role safeguards public funds, supports compliance, and provides the reliable financial information necessary to guide leadership decisions and sustain essential behavioral health and developmental disability services across South Carolina.
The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees: