Compliance Analyst Paralegal

Manager of Accounting

This isn’t just accounting. This is impact. At NOACA, finance is more than numbers—it’s how we fund transformation, enable regional progress, and build a more connected, sustainable Northeast Ohio. We’re looking for a CPA who is ready to step into a strategic leadership role, modernize systems, and ensure the financial integrity behind transportation, infrastructure, and environmental initiatives that shape our region every day. Every dollar managed at NOACA supports decisions that:

• Improve how people move across the region
• Preserve and modernize critical infrastructure
• Strengthen the economic vitality of Northeast Ohio

As the Manager of Accounting, you will sit at the center of that impact—ensuring our financial systems are strong, transparent, and built for the future. This role goes beyond traditional accounting oversight. You will:

Lead & Elevate Financial Operations

• Oversee all core accounting functions with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and modernization
• Ensure strong internal controls and compliance across all financial activities
• Drive high-quality financial reporting that leadership can rely on

Be a Strategic Partner

• Translate financial data into insights that inform decision-making and strategy
• Partner with Directors and Managers to support budgeting, forecasting, and program success
• Help shape how financial practices support organizational goals

Own the Audit & Compliance Space

• Lead the annual audit process, serving as the primary liaison with auditors
• Ensure readiness and excellence in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)
• Oversee grant accounting tied to federal and state funding

Modernize & Improve

• Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes, and reporting tools
• Champion smarter, more efficient ways of working through technology and innovation
• Strengthen transparency and accountability across the organization

LEADERSHIP EXPECTATION; SERVANT LEADERSHIP ACCOUNTABILITY

At NOACA, leadership is grounded in service, trust, and accountability. The Manager of Accounting is expected to model, teach, and institutionalize NOACA’s Servant Leadership Accountability approach by:

• Leading with humility, empathy, and purpose
• Creating a culture of psychological safety, collaboration, and excellence
• Developing, mentoring, and preparing staff at all levels for growth and succession
• Communicating clearly, consistently, and productively with staff, peers, leadership, and stakeholders
• Holding self and others accountable for results, behavior, and professional integrity
• Building trust internally and externally through transparency and reliability

Lead People & Build Capacity

• Develop accounting staff
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Help build financial literacy across the organization

Who You Are:

You’re not just technically strong—you’re forward-thinking, collaborative, and solutions-oriented. You will bring:

• A CPA (or be close to attainment of CPA) and a bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field
• 8+ years of progressive experience in government or public-sector finance
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and governmental accounting standards
• Experience with grant accounting and compliance
• A track record of improving systems, processes, or financial operations
• The ability to communicate financial concepts clearly to non-financial leaders

*Most importantly, you’re someone who sees finance as a strategic function—not just a transactional one.

Why NOACA:

At NOACA, you’ll find:

• A mission-driven organization with real regional impact
• A collaborative culture where your expertise is valued and respected
• Leadership that is committed to innovation and continuous improvement
• Opportunities to shape systems, influence decisions, and leave things better than you found them

We don’t just talk about our values—we operationalize them:

• STRENGTHEN collaboration
• PRESERVE trust and excellence
• BUILD smarter, tech-enabled processes
• SUPPORT staff growth
• ENHANCE wellbeing and recognition

Work Environment & Benefits

• Located in Cleveland, Ohio
• Hybrid, professional office environment
• Competitive public-sector compensation and benefits
• Meaningful work with visible community impact

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you’re ready to bring your accounting expertise into a role that blends strategy, leadership, and public impact, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the financial future of Northeast Ohio. Because great regions aren’t built by chance—they’re built by people who know how to invest in them.