Controller

The Texas Tribune • Austin, TX

16h • Remote

About The Position

The Texas Tribune seeks a Controller to lead the organization’s accounting operations and help ensure strong financial stewardship across the newsroom and business teams. This person will oversee core accounting functions, including financial reporting, compliance, and day-to-day financial processes, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in support of the Tribune’s mission. They will work closely with the CFO and collaborate across teams to maintain transparent, reliable financial systems that support a growing nonprofit newsroom.

This role oversees core accounting functions including general ledger, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, monthly close, audit, budgeting support, and cash management. The Controller directly supervises the Staff Accountant and Accounts Receivable Specialist, fostering a collaborative, high-performing finance team.

The successful Controller will bring rigor, transparency, and operational excellence to the finance function. They will combine strong technical accounting skills with a practical, collaborative approach suited to a dynamic nonprofit news environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting principles, including fund and grant accounting.
• Experience managing month-end close, audits, and financial reporting.
• Proficiency with accounting systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally with non-finance staff.

Nice To Haves

• CPA or CPA candidate.
• Experience managing the finances of a growing and changing organization.
• Experience with ERP/accounting platforms such as QuickBooks, Sage Intacct, NetSuite, or similar.

Responsibilities

• Manage all accounting operations including general ledger, journal entries, reconciliations, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination, and fixed assets.
• Lead monthly and annual close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial statements.
• Prepare internal financial reports, variance analyses, and dashboards for the CFO and leadership team.
• Maintain accounting systems, chart of accounts, and financial workflows to support operational efficiency and growth.
• Monitor cash flow, liquidity, and banking activity; assist CFO with forecasting and treasury management.
• Track and report restricted and unrestricted funds in accordance with nonprofit accounting standards.
• Support accounting for multiple revenue streams such as contributions, memberships, subscriptions, digital, and events.
• Ensure proper allocation of shared costs across business lines.
• Maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, and applicable federal/state regulations.
• Coordinate annual financial audit and preparation of schedules, workpapers, and auditor requests.
• Support preparation of IRS Form 990 and other required filings in partnership with external tax advisors.
• Manage out of state employee payroll tax/benefit requirements, sales tax, or other indirect tax compliance where applicable.
• Partner with the CFO on annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning.
• Provide department leaders with budget-to-actual reporting and financial guidance.
• Analyze trends in revenue, expenses, staffing, and program investments to inform decision-making.
• Recommend process improvements and scalable systems as the organization grows.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop the Staff Accountant and Accounts Receivable Specialist.
• Establish clear priorities, workflows, and accountability across the accounting team.
• Promote a service-oriented, detail-focused, and mission-aligned team culture.

Benefits

• Medical, vision and dental insurance
• A cellphone stipend
• 20 days of paid time off each year
• Up to 16 weeks of paid family leave, plus four weeks of additional job protection
• 401(k) matching
• Support for professional training and attending industry conferences
• Remote work flexibility

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior