Controller

Direct Report: Finance Director

Status: Full-time; Exempt with benefits: Blue Cross Medical/Dental/Vision, 403(b) retirement plan, Holidays, 4 weeks Paid Time Off, 10 weeks paid Parental leave

Salary: $85,280

Alternatives Overview:

Our mission is to inspire young people to create a just future through practices that heal individuals, restore communities, and transform systems. Since 1971, Alternatives has modeled innovative alternatives to the status quo in Chicago's youth services field. Our school and community-based therapy, prevention and leadership development programs support young people to individually and collectively address causes of substance abuse, grief and trauma while building social-emotional, career and social change skills. In addition to working directly with young people, we train, coach and advocate for youth-serving institutions like Chicago Public Schools to be restorative and trauma-informed.

Position Overview:

The Controller will be responsible for assisting the Financial Director, overseeing the accounting team, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting, finance, and non-profit management, with excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Perform the following from a racial, gender, sexuality, and ability equity lens:

• Assist the Finance Director with financial operations of the organization, including budgeting, financial reporting, and accounting procedures.
• Manage day-to-day accounting activities, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, grant budget revisions, and other governmental reports.
• Assist with preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and all grant related audits.
• Coordinate annual audit and tax filing processes, working closely with external auditors.
• Collaborate with program managers and department heads to develop and monitor program budgets, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
• Stay informed about changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and regulatory requirements affecting non-profit organizations.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Build positive workplace relationships and work as a collaborative and reliable team member within the Alternatives.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in accounting and financial management, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and non-profit accounting principles.
• Experience with financial software and systems, Sage is preferred.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail, with the ability to interpret financial data and trends effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate financial information clearly and concisely to non-financial stakeholders.
• Proven leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff to achieve organizational goals.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Alternatives.
• Experience working with diverse communities and an understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles is desirable.
• Interest and commitment to working in a community-based youth service agency.
• The COVID vaccine is mandatory for all employees to the full extent permissible under applicable law.