Controller

Under the direct supervision of the Deputy Chief Operating and Financial Officer, the Controller is responsible for the effective functioning of accounting systems, including accounts payable, payroll systems, purchasing, cash management, general ledger, financial reporting and regulatory/tax reporting. The Controller will lead and supervise a team of staff that works closely with leadership and their teams, building strong relationships to ensure that the accounting functions support program delivery. They will also manage key relationships, including external auditors and financial institutions.

The Controller is an individual who leads and thrives in a dynamic, and fast-paced environment; they possess the ability to navigate uncertainty with a strong systems background to deliver effective and efficient accounting services to the Community Change/Community Change Action enterprise.

A portion of the time will be spent working with Community Change's sister organization, Community Change Action.

Principal Responsibilities:

Financial Operations & Management:

• Lead day-to-day accounting functions across both 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) entities, including general ledger maintenance, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, reconciliations, and intercompany transactions.
• Prepare consolidated and entity-specific monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.
• Ensure proper accounting and compliance with IRS regulations for foundation and donor restricted funds for both types of organizations, including appropriate cost allocation between entities.
• Monitor cash flow and financial performance providing actionable insights through variance analysis as needed.
• Support the Director of Organizational Budgeting in the development of the annual budget and forecasts, working closely with program, development, and senior leadership teams across both entities.
• Assist and participate in Board Finance and Audit Committee presentations as needed.

Accounting & Systems Management:

• Support and maintain the technological financial management infrastructure consisting of a best-in-class ERP, Financial Close Automation and expense management platforms.
• Design and implement enhanced workflows and systems to support the efficient and accurate execution of the accounting function.
• Continuously collaborate with development and program teams to attain and maintain alignment of financial systems with salesforce and programmatic and fundraising strategies.
• Maintain the chart of accounts, ledgers, and records of all transactions.
• Ensure the accuracy and timeline of the financial close process and the production of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

Internal Controls, Compliance and Risk Management:

• Manage year-end audits and 990 tax filings in partnership with external auditors and consultants.
• Monitor guidance and regulatory requirements and recommend necessary actions to ensure Community Change remains compliant with GAAP, FASB and federal and state regulatory requirements.
• Develop, implement, and continuously maintain a strong internal control environment including documented financial policies, and procedures to mitigate risk and maintain transparency.
• Ensure compliance with legal, tax, and financial reporting requirements for both 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) entities.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of nonprofit financial regulations, political activity rules, and lobbying limitations.

Team Leadership:

• Supervise and develop a high-performing accounting team of two or more, fostering a culture of accountability and learning.
• Lead the department in building a strong data fluent culture developing goals for the department and encouraging effective performance management.
• Build strong relationships with staff across the organization with a particular emphasis on a strong customer service and issue resolution approach.

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance or another related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of accounting and finance experience, at least 5 of which must be in a senior managerial role.
• Prior nonprofit finance experience in a complex and/or multi-entity nonprofit environment with a successful track record of change management leadership in financial management role.
• Recognized success in developing and implementing policies, processes and procedures that impact and involve high levels of collaboration, particularly with program directors and other members of senior leadership.
• An accessible, visible, and flexible management style that inspires trust and confidence in staff to work hard and well together.
• Keen analytic, organization, and problem-solving skills that support and enable sound decision making in a complex organization; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities and guiding investment in people and systems.
• Direct and concise communication skills; an active listener; ability to translate complex financial concepts to individuals at all levels including finance and non-finance managers.
• Data and technology focused with experience in complex data systems including NetSuite, Sage Intacct, FloQast, Ramp, Bill.com & Salesforce.
• Advanced knowledge GAAP, FASB, and financial management and internal control compliance.

Preferred

• Certified Public Accountant.
• Experience in nonprofit accounting [501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4)] and financial management is preferred.
• A minimum of 8 years’ supervisory experience is preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic financial thinking in tandem with commitment to operational excellence.
• High integrity, discretion and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate complex financial concepts to non-financial staff and leadership.
• Commitment to the mission and values of social justice and equity.

This position reports to: Deputy Chief Operating and Financial Officer

Supervisory Responsibility: Yes

Salary Range: Annual salary range of $175,000 - $184,000.Community Change also offers an excellent benefits package, which includes 4 weeks of annual paid vacation; additional paid holiday leave between December 24 and January 1 and a Summer Break the week of July 4th; 8% employer contribution to a retirement account after six months of employment (and 3% employer contribution for the first 6 months); cell phone and internet stipend; and a choice of generous health insurance plans.

Travel Requirements: Minimal travel required; est. 5-10 days per year.

Classification: Community Change recognizes a staff bargaining unit affiliated with IFPTE Local 70, a union for non-profit workers. This position is not included in Community Change’s bargaining unit and not covered under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement.

Location: Community Change/Action is based in Washington, DC. Washington, DC is the preferred location for this position. Remote work is acceptable, however, (occasional) visits to the DC office may be required upon the office reopening.

Equal Opportunity: Our vision of a better world centers the leadership of impacted people of color to move our work on immigrant rights, economic justice, and racial equity, including a focus on jobs and housing, early childhood care and education, income supports, and immigration reform. We strongly encourage the interest and applications of people of color, women, and people in the disabled and LGBTQ+ communities. Community Change is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Closing Date of Position: Open Until Filled

Click here to learn more about our employee benefits and Community Change’s values