Controller

Brooklyn Museum•Brooklyn, NY

31d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for stewarding the Brooklyn Museum’s accounting operations, financial reporting, and compliance framework in service of the institution’s mission and long-term sustainability. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Controller provides hands-on leadership across core accounting functions while strengthening systems, controls, and processes appropriate to a complex, nonprofit cultural organization. This role partners closely with senior leadership, department heads, and external stakeholders (including our auditors and funding partners) to ensure transparency, accuracy, and sound financial governance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
CPA or equivalent professional credential strongly preferred
Extensive experience in senior accounting or controller roles, preferably within nonprofit, museum, or other mission-driven organizations
Expert knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, audit processes, and regulatory compliance requirements
Demonstrated experience managing audits, tax filings, grants accounting, and complex, restricted funding environments
Proven ability to evaluate and strengthen internal controls, accounting systems, and financial processes
Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience developing and mentoring accounting teams
Excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial information for non-financial stakeholders
Professional judgment, discretion, and the ability to operate effectively within a union-aware, collaborative organizational culture

Responsibilities

Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, cash management, fixed assets, month-end and year-end close, and payroll
Ensure timely, accurate preparation of internal and external financial statements in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards
Oversee accounting for grants, contributions, restricted funds, endowment activity, and capital projects in compliance with donor, regulatory, and reporting requirements
Direct the annual audit process and serve as primary liaison with external auditors, tax preparers, and financial advisors
Maintain responsibility for required regulatory filings, including Form 990 and other federal, state, and local reports
Design, implement, and continuously improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to manage risk and strengthen financial integrity
Partner with the Senior Director of Finance on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and long-term financial planning by providing reliable financial analysis and insight
Support financial reporting and analysis for senior leadership, Finance Committee, and Board of Trustees as needed
Lead, coach, and develop accounting staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous process improvement
Collaborate across departments to improve financial practices, systems adoption, and financial literacy throughout the organization

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
401(k) Savings Plan and Pension Plan
Generous paid time off, including annual vacation leave, sick leave, and 13 Museum holidays
Short-term and long-term disability coverage
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) & Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for eligible pre-tax health care, dependent care, and commuter expenses
Employee Assistant Program
Free admission to various NYC museums and cultural institutions
Early access to Museum exhibitions
Invitations to staff-only programs, tours, and on-site engagement events
Opportunities to participate in community initiatives and Museum programs
40% discount for staff in Museum shops
20% discount at Museum café