Controller

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

Are you a collaborative and strategic accounting leader who wants to make a meaningful impact in a mission-driven organization? Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JF&CS) is seeking a Controller to join our leadership team and help ensure the financial integrity and operational excellence of our $30 million nonprofit. This newly created role will oversee all accounting operations and play a key role in supporting our mission to improve the lives of over 15,000 individuals annually across diverse communities.

As Controller, you will lead a team of accounting professionals and work closely with department leaders across the agency to ensure accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and efficient fiscal processes. You will also contribute to a collaborative learning environment that supports innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations & Financial Oversight

Provide strategic and hands-on leadership for all accounting operations to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial data. This includes overseeing the full accounting cycle, maintaining strong internal controls, and delivering high-quality financial reporting that supports effective decision-making across the organization. The Controller will also maintain and optimize accounting systems and tools to support operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with GAAP, internal policies, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Audit, Compliance & Reporting

Lead the organization’s financial audit and compliance functions to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to regulatory standards. This includes managing annual audits (including the federal single audit), preparing schedules and documentation, and coordinating with external auditors. The Controller will also oversee regulatory filings such as the UFR, indirect cost proposals, and tax returns, while continuously improving internal controls and accounting policies to support compliance and risk mitigation.

Budgeting & Grants Support

Support the CFO, Budget Manager, and department leaders in the development and monitoring of the annual budget and financial forecasts. The Controller will play a key role in ensuring that grant and contract budgets are accurate and aligned with program goals, overseeing the preparation of financial reports and billing in collaboration with program managers. This work ensures that financial planning is integrated with programmatic success and sustainability.

Cross-Agency Collaboration

Work in close partnership with program and administrative leaders across the agency to ensure accurate accounting, efficient fiscal processes, and shared ownership of financial outcomes. Foster a collaborative learning environment by translating financial information into actionable insights, supporting staff in understanding financial systems, and promoting transparency and continuous improvement.

Team Leadership & Staff Development

Provide thoughtful and effective leadership to the accounting team, fostering a culture of high performance, accountability, and professional growth. The Controller will supervise and mentor staff, offering hands-on support and guidance to ensure departmental goals are met. This role requires leading with integrity, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Qualifications

• Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to convey complex financial information clearly and build strong relationships across the organization.
• Proven leadership and staff development skills, with experience managing and mentoring accounting teams in a collaborative, inclusive environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and sound judgment, with a proactive and analytical approach to financial challenges.
• Deep understanding of core accounting principles and practices, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive accounting experience, including relevant leadership or management roles.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required; CPA licensure preferred.
• Proficiency with cloud-based accounting systems (e.g., Sage Intacct, Adaptive Insights, Paycom).
• Advanced skills in Excel with proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and OneDrive.
• Experience in nonprofit financial management and government contracts is a plus.

ABOUT JF&CS

For more than 150 years, Jewish Family & Children's Service has been helping individuals and families build a strong foundation for resilience and well-being. We intentionally serve and employ people of ALL faiths, backgrounds, cultures, and abilities.

We have a strong culture of professional development, work-life balance, and promotion from within.

JF&CS is an equal opportunity employer who serves and employs people of all cultures and faith traditions. Employment opportunities are available to all without regard for race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

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