Controller - Iselin, NJ

About the Role

The Controller is responsible for the leadership and management of the Bank's Accounting function, ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial information. This role oversees daily accounting operations, the monthly and quarterly financial close processes, budgeting, cost management, accounts payable, and general ledger system administration. The Controller analyzes the Bank's financial and operating performance, identifies trends and risks requiring management attention, and provides reporting, analysis, and insights to support executive decision-making and organizational effectiveness.

The position maintains a strong internal control environment, ensures compliance with applicable accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and corporate policies, and drives process improvements that enhance efficiency and accuracy. The Controller exercises significant independent judgment and discretion in matters affecting the Bank's financial condition, reporting, and accounting operations, and partners closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams on financial planning, strategic initiatives, and the achievement of organizational objectives.

Responsibilities

• Financial Reporting, Controls, and Governance
  • Establish and maintain a strong internal control environment, including oversight of financial close controls, account reconciliations, accounting policies and procedures, and governance processes designed to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and reliability of financial reporting.
  • Manage internal/external audits and regulatory exams, ensuring timely completion of deliverables and remediation of findings.
  • Prepare and enhance financial and management reporting that monitors business performance and financial position, identifies trends and risks, and provides analysis and insights to support executive decision-making and strategic objectives.
  • Collaborate with Financial Reporting and FP&A teams on accounting interpretations, regulatory matters, and reporting requirements.
• Budgeting, Forecasting, and Performance Management
  • Lead the annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning processes, including presentation of the annual business plan to the Board of Directors.
  • Monitor budget-to-actual results, analyze variances and performance trends, and support incentive compensation programs through performance measurement and reporting.
• Expense Management and Accounting Operations
  • Provide oversight of the Bank’s expense management framework, including accounts payable, expense reimbursement and corporate card programs, sales and use tax compliance, 1099 reporting, fixed assets, and cost control initiatives to promote financial discipline, policy compliance, and operational efficiency.
  • Oversee accounting for employee benefits, including medical, 401(k) and pension, nonqualified benefit programs, Bank-Owned Life Insurance, fringe benefits, etc.; ensuring accurate accounting and reporting.
• Financial Systems, Process Improvement, and Strategic Initiatives
  • Oversee the administration and integrity of the Bank’s general ledger and related financial systems, leading reporting enhancements, process improvements, automation initiatives, and technology implementations that strengthen financial reporting, operational efficiency, and internal controls.
  • Represent Finance in cross-functional initiatives and special projects.
• Team Leadership and Talent Development
  • Lead, coach, and develop accounting managers and team members by establishing priorities, evaluating performance, and supporting succession planning.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance.

Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience within banking or financial services.
• Experience in bank accounting, tax accounting, regulatory reporting, and/or financial reporting.
• Experience leading accounting close, budgeting, forecasting, internal controls, and/or audit activities.
• Experience managing large teams within a publicly traded or highly regulated financial institution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• Master’s degree a plus.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.

Skills

• Strong leadership, communication, presentation, and analytical skills.
• Advanced knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Knowledge of bank regulatory reporting, SEC reporting, tax, and financial disclosure requirements.
• Proficiency with financial systems, general ledger platforms, budgeting tools, and reporting technologies.
• Ability to analyze complex financial data, identify risks and trends, and develop actionable recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet critical deadlines.
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Ability to build effective relationships with executive management, business partners, auditors, regulators, and vendors.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate high-performing teams.

Why Join Us

At Provident Bank, you'll play a critical leadership role in guiding the Bank's financial strategy, governance, and operational effectiveness. This is an opportunity to influence executive decision-making, partner across the organization on strategic initiatives, lead a high-performing accounting team, and contribute to the continued success of a growing and highly respected financial institution.

Working Conditions

• Prolonged sitting.
• Lifting from 5 to 10 lbs (e.g., printer paper, storage boxes).
• Occasional bending or overhead lifting (e.g., storing files or boxes).
• Work is performed in a normal office environment with moderate noise levels.
• May involve travel to property locations.
• Hazards are mainly those present in a normal office setting and commuting by car. Occasionally, exposure to conditions present in public forums and meeting places.

Pay

$240,000 - $270,000 annually. The base pay offered may vary based on skills, experience, job-related knowledge, education, geographic location, internal equity, and other applicable business and organizational needs. This role is eligible to participate in a lucrative incentive plan based on company, business, and/or individual goal achievement and performance.

Benefits

• Paid time-off (PTO) and holiday PTO.
• Health and wellness benefits, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision plans.
  • Flexible and Health Savings Accounts.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan.
• Disability Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Basic Life Insurance.
• Company-sponsored Tuition Disbursement and Loan Repayment programs.
• Voluntary benefits, including:
  • Supplemental Life Insurance.
  • Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity plans.
  • Legal plans.