Controller

Covenant House Georgia • Atlanta, GA

20d • $85,000 - $95,000

About The Position

As the Controller, you will be responsible for the day-to-day financial management and accounting operations of the organization. You will ensure accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, and efficient execution of accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgeting, and audit processes. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), you will serve as a tactical leader who works closely with program and department leaders to monitor budgets, manage grant compliance, and maintain financial accuracy and operational discipline. Over the course of your first few months, you will help manage our ERP systems migration (from Lawson to NetSuite), providing crucial oversight to this critical finance project. Your work will directly support our mission to end youth homelessness.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards
• Experience managing AP, AR, general ledger, and audit preparation
• Proficiency with accounting software, NetSuite (Lawson preferred) and advanced Excel skills
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and follow-through
• Effective communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
• Adept at quickly building relationships both internally and externally; demonstrated ability to build consensus on a cross-functional basis
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field
• Minimum 7 years of progressive accounting experience

Nice To Haves

• Experience in ERP financial system integration, migration or enhancement
• CPA certification
• Nonprofit experience

Responsibilities

• Oversee monthly close process, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and review of general ledger activity
• Prepare accurate monthly and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards
• Maintain supporting schedules and documentation for all balance sheet accounts
• Monitor cash balances and prepare regular cash flow updates
• Review and analyze budget-to-actual variances and provide explanations to the CFO
• Ensure proper classification of restricted and unrestricted funds
• Prepare financial reports required by grantors, funders, and external stakeholders
• Support or oversee new ERP financial system integration and enhancement, including updating policies and procedures
• Drive automation of manual processes to improve efficiency and accuracy
• Oversee daily accounts payable operations, including invoice coding, approvals, and timely payment processing
• Ensure expenses are properly allocated to programs, departments, and funding sources
• Review and approve check runs, ACH payments, wire transfers, and credit card reconciliations
• Maintain vendor files and resolve invoice discrepancies
• Monitor AP aging and manage payment schedules to support cash flow
• Enforce purchasing policies and internal controls
• Oversee billing and invoicing for grants, contracts, and program services
• Ensure timely submission of reimbursement requests and supporting documentation
• Oversee cash receipts processing and accurate posting to the general ledger
• Reconcile donor contributions and grant receipts in coordination with the Development team
• Ensure compliance with revenue recognition standards and grant requirements
• Coordinate annual budget preparation with department leaders
• Maintain budget tracking tools and monitor departmental spending
• Assist the CFO with financial forecasts and reforecasts
• Identify budget variances and work with managers to address issues
• Maintain financial policies and procedures to ensure compliance and internal control integrity
• Prepare audit schedules and serve as primary contact for auditors during fieldwork
• Ensure timely completion of Form 990 and other regulatory filings in coordination with external providers
• Monitor compliance with federal, state, and grantor financial requirements
• Maintain documentation supporting grant expenditures and restricted funds
• Supervise accounting staff
• Review work for accuracy and completeness
• Provide training and cross-training to ensure coverage and continuity
• Establish clear procedures and accountability within the Finance Department
• Participate in staff and leadership meetings as directed
• Provide financial information and support to program leaders as needed
• Coordinate financial reporting requirements with the parent organization
• Support the CFO with Board reporting materials as requested

What This Job Offers

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