Controller

Company Description Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people transform potential into opportunity through the power of work. Since 1923, the organization has provided job training, employment services, and supportive resources to individuals facing barriers such as disabilities, limited education, or gaps in work history. Goodwill focuses on empowering participants to achieve self-sufficiency, independence, and a sense of self-worth by earning a paycheck. Serving 23 counties in Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia, the organization is a member agency of Goodwill Industries International and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Financial and material donations directly support Goodwill’s mission-driven programs and are generally tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Role Description The Controller is a full-time, on-site role based in Chattanooga, TN, responsible for overseeing the organization’s accounting operations and ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting. This role manages the general ledger, supervises day-to-day accounting functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cash management, and coordinates month-end and year-end close processes. The Controller prepares and analyzes financial statements, budgets, and forecasts, and provides financial insights to support strategic decision-making and mission-driven initiatives. The role ensures compliance with GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, grant and donor requirements, and regulatory filings, and collaborates with auditors during annual audits and reviews. The Controller also helps improve financial policies, internal controls, and accounting systems, and partners with leaders across retail, mission services, and administrative departments to support operational efficiency and responsible stewardship of resources.
Qualifications

• Strong financial accounting and reporting skills, including experience with general ledger management, month-end close, and preparation of accurate financial statements (GAAP and nonprofit standards preferred).
• Demonstrated proficiency in budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and cash flow management to support strategic planning and operational decision-making.
• Hands-on experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and bank reconciliations, with the ability to streamline and document accounting processes.
• Knowledge of internal controls, audit coordination, and compliance requirements for nonprofit organizations, grants, and regulatory filings.
• High level of proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel; experience with ERP or nonprofit financial systems is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA or CMA designation preferred or equivalent relevant experience.
• Prior experience as a Controller, Assistant Controller, or senior accounting leader, ideally within a nonprofit, social enterprise, or multi-location organization.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills