Controller

Washington Performing Arts Society•Washington, DC

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Washington Performing Arts (WPA) seeks a strategic, detail-oriented, and collaborative Controller with deep nonprofit accounting experience to lead the accounting function at one of the nation’s most respected performing arts organizations. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will be a part of a small finance & administrative team comprised of the CFO, Assistant Director of HR & Operations, and a part-time finance consultant and will oversee core accounting operations, strengthen internal controls, ensure timely and accurate financial reporting, and help drive continuous improvement across systems and processes. This is an outstanding opportunity for a nonprofit finance professional with strong technical expertise in fund accounting, net asset tracking, grant compliance, and auditing/990 review, and who is energized by cross-functional partnership, thoughtful problem-solving, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will pair sound judgment with a hands-on approach, working closely with leaders across the organization to support decision-making, maintain financial integrity, and enhance the effectiveness of WPA’s interconnected systems, including Sage Intacct, Tessitura, Paylocity, and Ramp. This full-time position is based in Washington, DC and follows a hybrid work schedule.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business management
At least five years of progressive accounting experience, including prior experience as an Accounting Manager, Controller, or in a comparable senior accounting role
Substantial nonprofit accounting experience, including financial reporting, audit support, grants or restricted funding, and compliance with nonprofit regulatory requirements
Proficiency in accounting software and financial systems (Sage Intacct, preferred)
Experience integrating/reconciling various systems (Payroll, Ticketing/Fundraising CRM, Banking, etc.) with accounting software
Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting principles, and grant or restricted funding compliance requirements
Detail-oriented and able to work effectively under pressure
High-level proficiency utilizing Microsoft Excel and working knowledge of other Microsoft Suite products—Word and PowerPoint
Commitment to advancing the organization’s culture and mission
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial planning skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear insights and practical recommendations
Ability to prioritize, work under pressure, meet deadlines, and produce quality results
Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive situations
Problem solver that seeks out solutions and new issues that may arise

Nice To Haves

Experience using AI is preferred

Responsibilities

Oversee core accounting operations
Strengthen internal controls
Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting
Help drive continuous improvement across systems and processes
Support decision-making
Maintain financial integrity
Enhance the effectiveness of WPA’s interconnected systems

Benefits

Competitive medical, dental, and vision plan offerings including some 100% employer-paid options
HSA and FSA plans
Employer-paid Life Insurance with AD&D plus Long-Term Disability Insurance
Annual Health & Wellness and Professional Development stipend
Employee Assistance Program
403B and Roth Retirement Savings Plan Options
15 Vacation days per year
2 days of Personal Time off
13 days of Sick Leave
Four weeks paid Maternity/Paternity leave (after full-time employment of 1 year)
Employee-paid, pre-tax commuter benefit for taking public transportation to work
10 paid holidays plus closed for one week winter break and one week summer break
Opportunities to attend WPA performances