Controller - Job Description

Position Overview

The Controller plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, consistency, and integrity of the organization's financial operations. This position is responsible for overseeing accounting policies, systems, and reporting while managing daily cash activity and internal controls for company.

Working in close partnership with the COO/CFO and operational teams, the Controller helps guide financial planning, budgeting, and organizational performance. This role also leads the accounting function, ensuring timely and reliable financial information is delivered to leadership, departments, the Finance Committee, and the Board of Directors. The Controller reports directly to the COO/CFO.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee core accounting operations, including general ledger management, reconciliations, accounts payable/receivable, and purchase order controls.
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, including preparation of financial statements.
• Partner with the COO/CFO to develop annual budgets and financial plans and monitor performance throughout the fiscal year.
• Support financial analysis initiatives to improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Recruit, mentor, and manage accounting staff, fostering a high-performing team.
• Ensure financial data is delivered promptly and accurately to stakeholders across the organization.
• Manage annual audit and tax processes, collaborating with external auditors and presenting results to senior leadership and the Audit Committee.
• Contribute to the organization's annual report by highlighting key financial metrics and performance indicators.
• Oversee cash flow management and banking relationships in coordination with the COO/CFO.
• Review financial records for accuracy, identify discrepancies, and ensure proper accruals and accounting treatments are applied.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of accounting standards, tax regulations, and industry practices; implement policies to ensure compliance, including federal A-133 requirements.
• Serve as administrator for financial systems and provide training and support to internal users.
• Evaluate and recommend enhancements to financial systems and processes to improve efficiency.
• Help maintain and strengthen financial controls, identifying gaps and implementing improvements as needed.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related discipline required; CPA or CMA preferred.
• At least 5 years of experience in a Controller role, ideally within a small to mid-sized organization (>$40M), nonprofit or for-profit.
• Demonstrated leadership experience with the ability to develop teams and collaborate across departments.
• Strong judgment and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Success Factors

• Strong alignment with company's mission and a desire to contribute to a growing nonprofit organization.
• Innovative mindset with a willingness to introduce new ideas and approaches.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.
• Self-motivated and capable of working both independently and collaboratively.
• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency with general ledger and accounting systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to manage deadlines and adapt to changing priorities.

Leadership & Decision-Making

• Direct supervisory responsibility for accounting personnel.
• Ability to influence cross-functional initiatives.
• Proactively identify areas requiring policies or process improvements and recommend solutions.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $160,000 - $180,000 annually (based on experience)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage (90% employer-paid for employees; 50% for dependents)
• 403(b) retirement plan with 4% employer match (after one year, with three-year vesting)
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and 13 holidays

Work Environment

This is a hybrid role requiring 2-3 days per week in the East Bay office. Work is primarily office-based and involves regular computer use.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.