Controller

Way Finders•Springfield, MA

15d•$110,000 - $125,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Way Finders is a Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so! At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options. Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a Controller. The Controller is responsible for oversight of all accounting policies, practices, and activities; and the management and day-to-day responsibilities of the finance department. The Controller supports leadership by leading process improvement initiatives, making presentations to Board and Executive Team members, and through the ongoing analysis of financial data. Wage starts between $110,000 and $125,000 per year depending on equivalent qualifications. Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The candidate will work in a hybrid-remote manner, three days per week onsite.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting
7 years' progressively responsible mid-to-senior level management experience in accounting or fiscal, preferably in the nonprofit sector
Familiarity with government regulations and reporting requirements for nonprofit organizations
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (especially Excel, including advanced formulas), and comfort learning new technologies
Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; experience in effectively communicating key data, including presentations to senior management, board members, or other outside partners
Ability and desire to translate complex financial concepts to individuals at all levels including finance and non-finance managers
Ability to interact effectively with all levels of the organization as well as outside contacts such as auditors, financial institution representatives, investors, board members and other stakeholders
Proficiency in assessing priorities, organizing, and operating in a flexible manner in a fast-paced environment while retaining a high level of attention-to-detail

Nice To Haves

Preference for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation
Property management and/or real estate development accounting experience preferred

Responsibilities

Establish and maintain successful accounting policies and practices and lead all accounting activities
Lead improvement initiatives that automate and simplify processes
Train and mentor staff to collaborate as trusted advisors to internal staff; ensure consistency of this approach through active engagement and follow-up
Consistently analyze financial data and present reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements; monitor progress and changes and keep senior management abreast of the organization’s financial status
Oversee all audit activity
Lead the successful accomplishment of various accounting closings, preparation of financial statements, audit exercises, and other required reporting throughout the year including multi-entity consolidations
Lead cash management and cash forecasting practices; prepare reports for use by senior management
Develop with foresight single and multi-year business plans to address changes in the business environment and to capitalize on new opportunities
Analyze potential and existing property and entity mergers and divestitures; prepare reports for use by senior management to execute outcomes
Work in close cooperation with the Asset Manager and Vice President, Budgets and Compliance to successfully manage the accounting aspects of property ownership and management, grants and contracts, and operating and capital expenditure budgets
Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with staff (including across departments) to achieve goals
Identify and inform leadership of any matters that may adversely affect funding, financial status, or may result in inquiries from a funding, legislative, or media source
Remain current on accounting principles
Ensure new employees are onboarded in accordance with training plans for new staff members; evaluate training program and make process improvements based on feedback and results
Evaluate and provide timely feedback to staff on performance-related matters; assess staff members’ strengths and developmental needs; implement performance plans to ensure the development and/or maintenance of necessary skills
Hire new/replacement staff in an efficient manner, following recruiting process guidelines
Provide proper support and mentoring to supervisory-level employees to ensure they manage their team effectively through training, communication/feedback, group and 1:1 meetings, timely evaluations, performance plans as necessary, and efficient and thoughtful hiring
Those directly and indirectly supervised may include the Assistant Controller, specialists, accountants, clerks, support staff, and temporary workers