Controller

Controller / Director of Finance (Nonprofit)

Chicago, Illinois | Hybrid

About the Organization

Our Chicago-based nonprofit organization is dedicated to creating meaningful community impact through mission-driven programs and responsible stewardship of financial resources. We are seeking a CPA with strong nonprofit accounting expertise to lead financial operations, ensure compliance, and provide strategic guidance to executive leadership.

Position Summary

The Controller / Director of Finance will oversee all accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, grant compliance, and audit activities for the organization. This individual will serve as a key business partner to the Executive Director, Board Finance Committee, and program leadership while ensuring the integrity of the organization's financial operations.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership

• Lead all accounting and finance functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cash management.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Develop annual operating budgets and periodic forecasts.
• Present financial results and key insights to executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Monitor cash flow and recommend strategies to support operational and strategic initiatives.

Nonprofit & Grant Accounting

• Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards (GAAP and FASB requirements).
• Manage grant accounting, restricted funds, and donor reporting.
• Track program spending against grant budgets and funding requirements.
• Coordinate grant audits and financial reporting to funding agencies.
• Prepare and review Form 990 filings in partnership with external tax advisors.

Audit & Compliance

• Lead the annual financial statement audit and act as primary liaison with external auditors.
• Maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Manage banking relationships and support board-level finance reporting.

Team Leadership

• Supervise and mentor accounting staff.
• Drive process improvements and system enhancements.
• Establish efficient financial procedures to support organizational growth and scalability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required.
• CPA designation required.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience.
• 3+ years of nonprofit accounting experience required.
• Experience with grant accounting, restricted funds, and donor reporting.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Experience leading annual audits and preparing financial statements.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with nonprofit ERP/accounting systems such as Blackbaud Financial Edge, Sage Intacct, NetSuite, or MIP Fund Accounting.

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Nonprofit Management.
• Experience presenting to Boards of Directors and Finance Committees.
• Experience supporting organizations with multiple funding sources, grants, and community-based programs.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary: $150,000 - $170,000 , depending on experience.
• Annual bonus potential.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with employer contribution.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays.
• Hybrid work schedule.
• Professional development and CPA reimbursement opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act

• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance

• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance