Controller, Finance & Banking, Financial Reporting

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental & Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Generous PTO (Paid time off) – Accrue up to 21 days in Year 1, some PTO carryover allowable.
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employment may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Certain employees may qualify for City of Chicago commuter transit benefit.
• Hybrid
• $90,000 – $110,000

The Controller is responsible for ensuring accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and strong internal controls within a nonprofit organization. This role leads the accounting function, ensures audit readiness, and supports organizational transparency by producing high-quality financial reports aligned with nonprofit and grant requirements.

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Oversee general ledger activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial accuracy.
• Maintain and optimize the chart of accounts, ensuring alignment with programs, funding sources, and grant requirements.
• Ensure proper application of fund accounting principles for nonprofit operations.

• Prepare and deliver accurate and timely financial reports, including:
  • Statement of Activities (P&L)
  • Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet)
  • Statement of Cash Flows
• Produce functional expense reporting in compliance with nonprofit standards.
• Develop financial reporting packages for:
  • Executive leadership
  • Board of Directors
  • External auditors and regulators
• Provide insights and analysis to support decision‑making.

• Ensure compliance with:
• GAAP and nonprofit (fund accounting) standards
• Grant restrictions and donor requirements
• IRS Form 990 reporting
• Lead the annual external audit process, acting as primary liaison with auditors.
• Maintain audit readiness throughout the year.
• Design, implement, and monitor strong internal controls to mitigate risk.
• Ensure adherence to all applicable regulatory and reporting requirements.

• Manage cash flow planning, forecasting, and banking relationships.
• Oversee core financial operations, including:
  • Accounts Payable (AP)
  • Accounts Receivable (AR)
  • Payroll processing
• Monitor and manage restricted vs. unrestricted funds to ensure proper use and reporting.
• Support operational efficiency through process improvements and system optimization.

• Audited financial statements with a clean audit opinion (no material weaknesses).
• Monthly close and reporting package.
• Accurate and timely compliance and regulatory reports.
• Strong internal control environment with documented processes.

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit fund accounting.
• Experience with audits, compliance, and regulatory reporting (including Form 990).
• Proficiency in financial systems and ERP/accounting software.

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong process and internal control orientation.
• Analytical mindset with ability to interpret and communicate financial data.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment.

• Proven experience in accounting or finance leadership roles.
• Nonprofit or grant‑based accounting experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success leading audits and maintaining compliance.

• CPA or equivalent certification (preferred).
• Experience working with boards and executive leadership.
• Strong communication and team leadership skills.