Controller

NEW HAVEN YOUTH AND•Vista, CA

About The Position

New Haven Youth & Family Services is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering at-risk youth and families through education, mental health, and life skills programs. Our vision is to set the standard of care for youth and families by restoring hope, building resilience, and creating opportunities for every young person to reach their full potential. We are seeking a highly hands-on Controller to join our small team of three (3). This strategic and tactical role partners closely with the CEO to strengthen financial sustainability, support program growth, manage cash flow, and contribute to revenue strategy. At the same time, the Controller is directly responsible for preparing all financial reports, developing and monitoring budgets, implementing and maintaining strong internal controls, managing day-to-day accounting operations, and serving as the primary liaison to external auditors. This role ensures financial integrity, transparency, and compliance with nonprofit accounting standards while supporting the organization’s mission and long-term stability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
Active California CPA license preferred.
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive accounting and financial management experience; nonprofit or grant-funded experience strongly preferred.
Demonstrated experience with audits, budgeting, contracts, and regulatory compliance.
Proven leadership ability with high ethical standards, sound judgment, and strong operational focus.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Active California CPA license preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee all accounting functions in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.
Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including the Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Activities, and Statement of Cash Flows.
Monitor organizational and program budgets; analyze variances and provide recommendations to the CEO and leadership team.
Provide timely financial reports and analysis to the CEO and, as requested, the Board of Directors and Finance/Audit Committees.
Lead the annual budgeting process and support ongoing forecasting and financial planning.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including nonprofit reporting and funding requirements.
Oversee financial management of grants, contracts, and restricted funds, ensuring accurate tracking, reporting, and compliance with funder requirements.
Advise the CEO and leadership team on financial aspects of contracts, funding agreements, insurance, and risk management; participate in bid reviews and negotiations.
Establish, implement, and maintain strong internal controls, financial policies, and procedures to safeguard organizational assets.
Manage cash flow, banking relationships, and liquidity to ensure financial stability.
Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash management functions to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
Coordinate and lead year-end financial audits, serving as the primary liaison with external auditors and ensuring timely completion.
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate accounting department staff, promoting professional development and accountability.
Provide financial training and technical assistance to program managers to strengthen budget management and financial literacy.