Controller
Columbia, SC
Southern Mutual Church Insurance has an immediate opening for a full time Controller in our Columbia, SC office. The Controller supports the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in all aspects of financial management, leads the month-end close processes, assists with quarterly/annual regulatory and tax filings, assists with various data calls, and assists with preparation of the annual budget. Works closely with executive management to support organizational goals and serves as a member of the Company’s Investment Committee.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Leads a team of 3 in the accounting department.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements under statutory accounting principles (SAP), with GAAP reporting as needed.
- Manage daily accounting operations including journal entries, account reconciliations, bank reconciliations, premium and loss accounting, and processing financial transactions.
- Serve as a contact for annual financial audits and regulatory examinations, often working directly with auditors and regulators.
- Oversee premium billing, collections, cash applications, and commission accounting.
- Oversee accounting for claims payments, reserves, IBNR (Incurred but Not Reported), and reinsurance transactions.
- Oversee accounting for reinsurance premiums and recoverables, ceding commissions, and settlements.
- Supervise, guide, and develop accounting staff.
- Coordinate the unclaimed property process with accounting staff
- Oversee the yearly 1099 process with accounting staff
- Cross train with Human Resources to learn payroll and related benefit processes
- Establish internal controls and ensure compliance with corporate policies.
- Prepare and file annual tax returns or prepare financial information so outside accountants can complete tax returns.
- Advise management on short-term and long-term financial objectives, policies, and actions.
- Prepare annual budgets, data calls or other ad hoc reports as required.
- Monitor cash flow and serves as a member of the Company’s Investment Committee
Required Skills/Abilities:
Strong leadership, analytical, excel skills, and expertise in accounting principles are essential for success in this role.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting. Certified Public Accountant (“CPA”) designation preferred. 4–6+ years of accounting experience with 2-3 years in P&C insurance reporting desirable.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to maintain sedentary position for extended periods. Frequent and repetitive use of a computer. Ability to lift or move up to 10–20 pounds
Other Duties
Duties, responsibilities and activities may change over time to adjust to the organization’s needs with or without notice.
EEO Statement:
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to any statuses protected by federal, state, or local law.
Southern Mutual Church Insurance Company is a leading provider of property and casualty insurance for the church market in the Southeast founded in 1928. We are committed to our policyholders and employees. We provide competitive salary, excellent benefits package, and great working environment.
Please visit our website at www.smcins.com/careers or email resumes to tbrockman@smins.com

