The client is seeking a Controller, a key leadership role reporting to the Vice President, Finance. This position serves as the operational leader of the accounting function, safeguarding financial integrity by ensuring that financial activity is accurate, compliant, controlled, and audit-ready. The Controller will also build the systems, processes, and team capabilities needed to support a mission-driven organization’s growth.
Core responsibilities include owning day-to-day accounting operations such as general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll accounting, and month-end close. The role will design and maintain an internal control environment aligned with relevant accounting standards, support strong governance over financial compliance, and lead audit preparation and coordination for internal and external audits, including single audit processes under Uniform Guidance for applicable grants. The Controller will also build scalable accounting systems and infrastructure, ensure chart of accounts and data integrity, and drive change management to support finance transformation and organizational adoption of improved processes.
The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in nonprofit accounting, including compliance, restricted fund management, grant accounting, and financial statement preparation. They should have a systems-level approach, a track record of clear communication and cross-functional partnership, and a mission-aligned leadership style that develops and mentors accounting staff while establishing accountability. Qualifications include progressive accounting experience with increasing scope, demonstrated people leadership within an accounting function, strong experience with month-end close, reconciliations, internal controls, and balance sheet integrity, and experience with ERP systems (with experience in NetSuite or similar systems preferred). A bachelor’s degree in Accounting is required, with CPA strongly preferred, and nonprofit and grant accounting experience including familiarity with single audit and federal grant compliance is strongly preferred.