Controller, Finance & Banking, Financial Manager

Clifton Larson Allen  (CLA) Search has been retained by California Farmlink to identify a Controller to serve their team. Founded in 1999, California Farm Link is a statewide nonprofit that supports farmers, ranchers, and fishers by expanding equitable access to land, capital, and education. Through affordable financing, land access support, and business education, Farm Link focuses on strengthening resilient food systems and serving agricultural producers historically underserved by traditional financial institutions.

Reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, the Controller will have primary responsibility for the day-to-day operations of a finance team of 3 people. This role requires extensive cross-department collaboration to be successful. As the lead of the finance function, the Controller sets the tone for transparency and clarity, modeling best practices for effective and efficient stewardship of Foundation funds.

• Prepare and analyze financial statements (income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements)
• Ensure accuracy and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Maintain and manage the general ledger; prepare monthly/quarterly/annual financial reports
• Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable processes
• Prepare reports for external stakeholders, such as investors and regulators
• Monitor performance, identify trends, and make corrective adjustments as necessary. – problem-solve
• Present financial reports and analysis to key stakeholders as needed
• Stay updated on best practices in nonprofit financial management and recommend improvements to enhance effectiveness and efficiency
• Ensure the budgeting process aligns with the operational needs of the organization and priorities
• Evaluate and implement cost-saving initiatives while maintaining high-quality services
• Develop and manage the organizational budget
• Analyze variances and provide insights into financial performance
• Prepare financial forecasts and projections
• Prepare and file the tax returns and ensure regulatory compliance and industry standards
• Implement and enforce internal controls to ensure financial integrity
• Remain abreast of fraud trends, Identify and mitigate financial risks to the organization
• Serve as a business partner to the COO with a keen eye on continuously developing and improving systems
• Works with leaders across the organization to monitor processes and make recommendations

• BS in Accounting/Finance/Economics required; CPA and/or MBA designation is strongly preferred
• 7-10 years of accelerated finance and accounting experience; ideally in both nonprofit, CDFI or lender environment
• Demonstrated leadership ability, team management and interpersonal skills
• Exceptional management and supervisory skills; must be an empowering mentor that embraces integrity and ethical practices by providing accurate, responsive, detail-oriented financial results and goals
• Possess high level of personal integrity, good judgment and maturity
• Outstanding analytical and organizational skills, detail-oriented, ability to prioritize competing and multiple priorities with calm demeanor and sound judgment
• Possess ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Highly engaged, mission-driven and results-oriented
• Ability to build a high-performance team through delegation of responsibility and authority while challenging, motivating, stretching and supporting senior leadership
• A collaborative and flexible leadership style, with a strong service mentality
• Technically proficient in database and accounting computer application systems;
  Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Quick Books Online
• Passion for the mission and work of California Farmlink