Controller (Non-Profit)

Title: Controller – Non-Profit
Location: Washington - Maryland - Virginia area
Work Environment: Hybrid / Remote (flexible based on candidate)
Compensation: Competitive base + bonus potential

Overview
A mission-driven, growing non-profit organization is seeking a Controller to lead its accounting operations and serve as a strategic partner to executive leadership. This individual will oversee the full financial function, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and transparency across all reporting while supporting the organization’s long-term impact.

This is a highly visible role with direct interaction with senior leadership and Board-level stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and financial reporting
• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process with a focus on accuracy and timeliness
• Prepare and present financial statements, board reporting packages, and variance analyses
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning aligned to organizational goals
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, fund accounting standards, and nonprofit regulations 
• Oversee and coordinate annual audits, 990 preparation, and external audit relationships 
• Strengthen and maintain internal controls and financial processes
• Partner cross-functionally with program leadership on grant tracking, financial performance, and reporting 
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting team

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA strongly preferred
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including non-profit accounting
• Strong experience with:
  • Financial reporting & full-cycle accounting
  • Budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
  • Audit and compliance oversight
• Expertise in grant/fund accounting and nonprofit reporting requirements
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and improving processes
• Systems experience (e.g., Sage Intacct, NetSuite, or similar) highly preferred
• Ability to communicate financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders and leadership 

Why This Role

• High visibility and direct impact on mission delivery
• Opportunity to modernize systems and strengthen financial infrastructure
• Collaborative, mission-focused culture