Controller

Job Description

Job Description

The YMCA is seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative Controller  to lead our accounting operations. The Controller will oversee day-to-day accounting functions, including the general ledger, month-end and year-end close, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, fund and grant accounting, and audit preparation. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who takes pride in accuracy and process, enjoys developing a team, and serves as a trusted partner to program and operations leaders who rely on timely, reliable financial information.

This position is well suited for an accounting leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment and wants their work to directly support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility in our community. The Controller will play a key role in improving workflows, strengthening internal controls, and ensuring the association's financial records reflect the highest standards of integrity. This is a role with real opportunity for growth, offering the chance to expand responsibilities, deepen strategic involvement, and advance within the organization's finance leadership.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Controller is responsible for the integrity, accuracy, and timely reporting of the YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge and South Amboy’s financial information and for the effective day-to-day operation of the Finance Department.

The Controller provides leadership and oversight for accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, budgeting and forecasting, cash management, grants accounting, audit preparation, and regulatory compliance. The Controller works closely with the President & CEO, COO, department and branch leaders, and other members of the leadership team to provide accurate financial information that supports sound decision-making and the long-term financial health of the Association.

The Controller also serves as the primary staff officer to the Finance Committee and as the Association’s finance liaison to the Board of Directors, ensuring that Board and committee members receive timely, accurate, and understandable financial information.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Accounting Operations & Financial Integrity
   Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash receipts, bank reconciliations, payroll-related accounting, grants accounting, and other accounting functions.
2. Financial Reporting
   Ensure the timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports in accordance with GAAP and Association policies.
3. Budgeting & Forecasting
   Lead and coordinate the annual budgeting process and ongoing financial forecasting in partnership with Association leadership. Monitor actual performance against budget and forecasts and identify significant trends and variances.
4. Financial Analysis & Leadership Support
   Provide financial information, analysis, and guidance to the President & CEO, COO, and operational leaders to support informed decision-making, financial accountability, and organizational sustainability.
5. Internal Controls
   Maintain effective accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls, including appropriate segregation of duties, to safeguard Association assets and ensure the integrity of financial information.
6. Audit, Tax & Compliance
   Coordinate the annual independent audit and support the preparation of required tax filings, including Form 990. Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, regulatory requirements, grant requirements, and YMCA policies.
7. Cash & Balance Sheet Management
   Oversee cash management, banking activities, account reconciliations, and the accurate recording and reconciliation of Association assets and liabilities.
8. Grants, Contracts & Partnerships
   Ensure appropriate financial accounting, reporting, and compliance for grants, contracts, and significant organizational partnerships.
9. Finance Committee & Board Support
   Serve as the primary staff officer to the Finance Committee and the Association’s finance liaison to the Board of Directors. Prepare and present financial reports, forecasts, budget information, and other financial materials in a clear and understandable manner. Work with the President & CEO and Finance Committee leadership to support effective financial oversight and governance.
10. Finance Team Leadership
    Supervise, develop, and support Finance Department staff and establish clear responsibilities, deadlines, and accountability for accurate and timely financial work.
11. Organizational Partnership
    Serve as a financial resource to Association leadership and staff and promote strong financial practices and accountability throughout the organization.
12. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the YMCA’s mission, strategic priorities, and financial health.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent combination of education and significant relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible accounting and financial management experience.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, general ledger accounting, financial statements, budgeting, internal controls, and audit processes.
• Experience supervising and developing accounting or finance staff.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced proficiency with Excel and experience working with accounting and financial management systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and consistently meet financial reporting deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain financial information to non-financial leaders.
• Comfortable preparing and presenting financial information to senior leadership, the Finance Committee, and the Board of Directors.
• Nonprofit accounting experience preferred.

YMCA LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS

• Demonstrates the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Maintains the highest standards of integrity, confidentiality, and professional judgment.
• Builds collaborative relationships across departments and locations.
• Promotes accountability, transparency, and sound stewardship of YMCA resources.
• Works in a safe and conscientious manner and follows all Association health and safety requirements.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed in an office environment and may include extended periods of sitting, computer use, reading, writing, and telephone or virtual communication. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time, nor does it contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the position. This job description does not constitute an employment contract. Employment with the YMCA is at will.