Deputy Controller

AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST•Washington, DC

5d•$120,000 - $130,000•Hybrid

About The Position

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families by improving farm viability and farmland access. Long a pioneering leader, AFT is now riding a new wave of growth, driven by agriculture’s most pressing needs and opportunities. American Farmland Trust (AFT) is seeking a strategic, detail-oriented Deputy Controller to support and lead the day-to-day operations of our Finance Department. Reporting directly to the Controller, this role plays a key part in ensuring the accuracy, efficiency, and integrity of our financial systems and processes. As a vital member of AFT’s Finance team, the Deputy Controller is responsible for managing financial systems and accounting operations while supervising the finance staff. The ideal candidate will bring a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on leadership, with the ability to streamline workflows, manage multiple deadlines, and support our organizational mission with sound financial guidance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or equivalent certification preferred.
Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including management-level responsibilities.
Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit financial management preferred.
Excellent leadership, analytical, and organizational skills.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
Experience with financial systems and software, with a preference for [insert specific tools if known, e.g., Sage Intacct, QuickBooks, Excel].

Responsibilities

Staff Management: Supervise, coach, and mentor a team of finance professionals. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development.
Timeline Oversight: Develop, manage, and monitor financial timelines to ensure timely completion of key deliverables, including monthly close, budget cycles, and reporting.
Workflow Optimization: Lead the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department. Continuously improve financial workflows and processes for greater efficiency and accuracy.
Financial Reporting: Assist in preparing accurate and timely financial statements, budgets, forecasts, and other internal and external financial reports.
Internal Controls: Establish and maintain strong internal controls to protect organizational assets and ensure the accuracy of financial data. Create and standardize operating procedures for improved efficiency.
Audit Management: Oversee the annual external audit process by coordinating internal efforts and ensuring timely delivery of all required documentation.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with departments across AFT to provide financial insights, support strategic decision-making, and align financial goals with organizational priorities.
Special Projects: Lead or contribute to special projects or initiatives as assigned by the Controller or Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Benefits

Insurance coverage begins the 1st of the month following the date of hire.
Medical & Prescription Coverage
Dental Coverage
Vision Coverage
Company Paid Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability (LTD)
Voluntary Life Insurance
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Healthcare & Dependent Care
Health Savings Account (HSA)
401k Plan
Sick Leave: Regular full-time employees accrue 13 “sick days” per year.
Vacation Leave: Accrue 15 days during the first year increasing by one day per year to 20 days per year maximum.
Holidays: AFT observes twelve fixed holidays and a week between Christmas and New Years off during the year (all offices closed) plus a choice of up to three (depending on hiring month) floating holidays.
Be a part of a purpose-driven, committed, knowledgeable, high-performing, experienced and fun team
A diverse and inclusive work environment
A cause and mission you can be proud of
Competitive compensation & benefits
Remote work opportunities
Flexible scheduling