VP Controller

The Controller is a key senior leadership position responsible for overseeing the financial integrity and strategic financial operations of the organization. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller will direct all accounting and reporting activities, ensuring compliance with nonprofit regulations, GAAP, and grant requirements. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, strategic leader with a strong background in nonprofit fund accounting, robust financial reporting, and the management of complex and diverse funding sources.

Essential duties and responsibilities

Financial reporting and oversight

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the accounting department, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and grant administration.
• Direct the monthly, quarterly, and annual closing processes to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare and analyze the Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Activities, and Statement of Cash Flows in compliance with GAAP.
• Present financial reports to the senior leadership team and the Board Finance and Audit Committee, effectively communicating key financial data.

Budgeting and cash management

• Lead the annual budgeting and planning process in collaboration with leadership and program managers.
• Administer and review all financial plans, conducting variance analyses and providing explanations and corrective actions as appropriate.
• Manage organizational cash flow, including forecasting, and cultivate banking relationships to optimize cash positions.

Compliance and audit

• Ensure full compliance with all nonprofit accounting standards, federal and state regulations, and specific funder requirements.
• Coordinate and oversee the annual financial audit and Single Audit, serving as the main point of contact for external auditors.
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls and accounting policies and procedures to safeguard financial assets and ensure a clean audit.
• Oversee all financial aspects of grant and contract administration, including budgeting, expenditure tracking, and compliance with grant terms.

Leadership and strategic partnership

• Supervise, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team, clarifying roles and fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Serve as a strategic financial partner to the CFO, program leaders, and other departments, providing analysis and insight to support mission delivery and program effectiveness.
• Manage financial risk and assist with scenario planning to ensure long-term financial stability and sustainability.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and leverage new technologies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the finance function.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA and/or MBA is strongly preferred.
• Experience: 12+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within a complex nonprofit organization.
• Expertise: Extensive experience with nonprofit fund accounting, GAAP, and grant compliance requirements (e.g., Uniform Guidance for federal awards).
• Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency with financial software (e.g., NetSuite, Sage Intacct) and MS Excel. Experience with system implementations is a plus.
• Core Competencies: Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills; excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage diverse audiences, including the board, funders, and staff.
• Personal Attributes: Impeccable integrity, credibility, and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission.