Controller

ABOUT UNITED WAYS OF CALIFORNIA

Our Mission and Vision:

United Ways of California’s (UWCA) mission is to improve health, education, and financial stability for low-income children and families by enhancing and coordinating the community impact and advocacy work of California’s United Ways. We imagine an equitable California where every individual has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Why You Should Join Our Team:

The work that we do at United Ways of California is dedicated to removing systemic barriers and fostering inclusivity through diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our goal is to promote belonging, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. If you believe that everyone deserves opportunities to live a good life and are excited about the opportunity to work together to advocate for the expansion of policies and programs that support our three foundational pillars of education, health, and financial empowerment, then join us to build a better, thriving California.

This is more than an accounting role – it’s an opportunity to influence financial strategy at a mission-driven organization making an impact in California and beyond. You will join a collaborative team that values accuracy, innovation, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Reporting to the President & CEO, the Controller will lead the accounting and financial operations at UWCA. The Controller will oversee all aspects of accounting, grant management, and financial compliance, while serving as a key advisor to leadership and the Board of Directors.

As a core function, the Controller will leverage technology to improve financial analysis, reporting, and decision-making across the organization with the upgraded financial systems that UWCA has invested in.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Strategy

• Partner with the CEO and leadership team in shaping financial policy and long-term planning.
• Provide timely financial insights to guide strategic and operational decisions.
• Communicate regularly with the Chair of the Audit Committee of the Board.

Accounting and Compliance

• Lead day-to-day operations of the accounting department.
• Oversee monthly and annual closes, ensuring timely and accurate financials in compliance with US GAAP.
• Ensure proper revenue recognition for both government and foundation grants.
• Maintain and improve accounting policies, procedures and internal controls.
• Manage external audits and coordinate tax filings with external advisors.

Team Development

• Supervise, mentor, and develop a lean, high-performing accounting team (AP, GL, etc.)
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee credit card program, travel and expense reimbursements, and enforce policy compliance.
• Monitor balance sheet reconciliations, resolving issues proactively.
• Ensure appropriate organizational insurance coverage.
• Track and report on grant commitments, implementing process improvements as needed.

Technology and Systems

• Leverage Sage Intacct and Martus Budgeting to enhance reporting and dashboarding.
• Collaborate with IT consultants on financial system implementations and upgrades.
• Ensure integrity of financial data across platforms.

Special Projects

• Conduct ad hoc analysis, prepare reports, and support organizational initiatives.

ORGANIZATIONAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work collaboratively with leadership and program teams to ensure financial strategies and practices align with organizational priorities and long-term goals.
• Partner with cross-departmental staff to provide financial guidance and support that strengthens decision-making across programs and operations.
• Share financial outcomes and insights with the organization, including preparing reports for leadership, grant compliance, and stakeholder communications.
• Contribute financial expertise, ideas, and strategies to enhance organizational effectiveness, build team capacity, and improve overall operations.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings, trainings, and planning sessions, offering a financial perspective to advance organizational objectives.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATION

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role within a mid-to-large non-profit.
• Proven success in managing grants (government and foundation) and ensuring compliance.
• Strong knowledge of non-profit accounting and GAAP.
• Experience building and leading small, high-performing teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office but especially Excel (PivotTables, LOOKUP functions, data analysis).
• Experience using Sage Intacct strongly preferred and Martus Budgeting a big plus.
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and communication skills.
• Self-motivated, hands on and adaptable to a dynamic environment.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Extensive knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP) and financial reporting, with proven experience preparing accurate financial statements, budgets, and forecasts.
• Strong strategic planning and analytical skills, with the ability to develop financial strategies that support organizational goals and drive business performance.
• Proven project management skills, including the ability to lead complex financial initiatives, meet deadlines, and manage multiple priorities efficiently.
• Experience leading and supervising finance and accounting teams, providing coaching, mentoring, and professional development to staff.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with executive leadership, board members, auditors, and external partners.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a virtual environment, exercise sound judgment, and implement creative solutions to complex financial challenges.
• High level of proficiency in financial systems, ERP platforms, spreadsheet modeling, and reporting tools, with the ability to leverage technology to improve financial processes and controls.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS AND PREFERENCES

• Strong ethical backbone, willingness to make extra effort to do the right thing.
• Ability to travel periodically for in-person meetings, if necessary (reimbursements for travel costs provided).

LOCATION

United Ways of California operates as a fully virtual organization. The Controller position can be based anywhere nationwide.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance, 401k Retirement Plan, Vacation Leave

TO APPLY

If Idealist submission is not available to you, we welcome your application by email. Please include a signed cover letter and resume describing your qualifications, experience, and what inspires you to join our mission, and send it to:

Email: HR@unitedwaysca.org

(Word or .PDF format only)

Deadline to Apply: November 17, 2025

United Ways of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

We do not discriminate or tolerate harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. This applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, pay, promotion, benefits, and termination.

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance, 401k Retirement Plan, Vacation Leave

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