Nonprofit Controller

Cooper Douglas is seeking a Nonprofit Controller to lead the accounting function for a mission-driven organization experiencing continued growth and transformation. This individual will play a critical role in strengthening the organization's financial infrastructure, building processes, and creating a more independent accounting function. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Controller will oversee all accounting operations while partnering closely with executive leadership to support long-term financial strategy and operational excellence.

This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who enjoys improving processes, building teams, and creating structure. The ideal candidate brings deep nonprofit accounting experience, thrives in a collaborative environment, and understands the unique complexities of fund accounting, grants, audits, endowments, and regulatory compliance.

• Lead all day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, reconciliations, month-end close, and financial reporting.
• Supervise and mentor the accounting team while providing guidance, support, and accountability across the department.
• Manage the annual audit process, serving as the primary contact for external auditors and coordinating all requested audit documentation.
• Prepare accurate monthly and annual financial statements, management reports, and Board reporting packages.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, GAAP, internal controls, and regulatory reporting requirements, including Form 990.
• Oversee fund accounting, including restricted and unrestricted funds, grant accounting, and financial compliance for private, state, and federal funding sources.
• Monitor endowment activity, investment reporting, and planned gifts while ensuring appropriate accounting treatment and financial reporting.
• Partner with executive leadership on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and long-term financial planning.
• Review contracts and funding agreements to ensure appropriate financial reporting and compliance.
• Evaluate and improve accounting processes, internal controls, and financial systems to support organizational growth.
• Serve as the primary accounting liaison with external partners while helping build a standalone accounting function.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience with significant nonprofit accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit fund accounting, grant accounting, and financial reporting.
• Experience managing annual audits and working directly with external auditors.
• Working knowledge of Form 990 and nonprofit financial compliance.
• Experience with federal grants, grant compliance, and Uniform Guidance preferred.
• Exposure to endowment accounting, investment reporting, and planned giving highly preferred.
• Previous leadership experience managing accounting staff.