What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at Bell & Associates, Inc.?
Location: Washington, D.C. (Hybrid – 3 days/week onsite)
Employment Type: Full‑Time
Reports To: Chief Financial Officer
About the Organization
Our client is a respected, mission‑driven human rights nonprofit headquartered in Washington, D.C. The CFO is seeking a strategic, hands‑on Controller who is passionate about mission‑oriented work and eager to strengthen the financial infrastructure of a growing organization.
Position Overview
The Controller will serve as the organization’s senior accounting leader, overseeing all day‑to‑day accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This individual will play a critical role in modernizing the finance function, enhancing systems, and ensuring the organization’s financial integrity as it continues to expand its impact.
This is an ideal role for a CPA who thrives in a collaborative, values‑driven environment and enjoys building scalable processes.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Operations & Reporting
- Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, revenue recognition, and month‑end close.
- Prepare accurate and timely financial statements, management reports, and grant‑related financial deliverables.
- Ensure compliance with GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, and all regulatory requirements.
- Lead annual audit preparation and serve as primary liaison with external auditors.
Internal Controls & Compliance
- Strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and financial procedures.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local reporting requirements.
- Maintain strong documentation and audit‑ready processes.
Systems, Process Improvement & Transformation
- Drive continuous improvement across accounting workflows and financial systems.
- (Nice to Have) Lead or support an accounting system migration (e.g., to NetSuite, Sage Intacct, or similar).
- (Nice to Have) Experience transitioning an organization from an outsourced accounting model to a fully in‑house department, including building processes, staffing, and controls.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Manage and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and mission alignment.
- Partner with the CFO, program leaders, and development teams to support budgeting, grant management, and strategic decision‑making.
- Communicate financial insights clearly to both financial and non‑financial stakeholders.