Fractional Controller for Nonprofit Company

Vessel Advisors • Palo Alto, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Fractional Controller is an interim leadership role responsible for stewarding the financial resources of our organization in support of its mission. This is a 15–20 hour per week contract position projected for a minimum of 12 months. This role focuses primarily on financial leadership, accounting, and strategic forecasting. While many day-to-day administrative and facility functions have been removed or reduced for this fractional scope, the role retains high-level oversight of these areas. The Fractional Controller will directly manage a Staff Accountant and an Administrator who will handle the execution of day-to-day accounting, administrative, and facilities tasks.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting required.
• Proven progressive experience in finance and accounting, including previous leadership experience as a Controller or Director-level financial professional.
• Prior experience in a nonprofit organization is required, including deep familiarity with fund accounting, restricted funds, and grant compliance.
• Demonstrated experience managing and developing accounting and/or administrative staff.
• Proficiency with QuickBooks and familiarity with modern HRIS/Payroll systems (Rippling knowledge is a significant plus).
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting principles and financial management best practices.
• Ability to clearly communicate complex financial information to non-financial staff and board members.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• High level of integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to the organization's mission.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

• Rippling knowledge is a significant plus.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary financial leader for the organization, ensuring long-term financial sustainability and strong internal controls.
• Manage and mentor the Staff Accountant and Administrator, delegating day-to-day transactional accounting and administrative functions effectively.
• Oversee general ledger functions, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, cash management, and month-end/year-end close processes.
• Prepare and monitor the annual operating and capital budgets. Develop financial forecasts, cash flow projections, and multi-year financial plans.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards (U.S. GAAP), donor restrictions, grant requirements, and applicable regulations. Track restricted funds and endowments.
• Coordinate the annual independent audit and IRS Form 990 preparation. Provide clear, timely financial reports and variance analysis to the CEO and the Board of Directors.
• Oversee the integration of financial and HR systems (e.g., Rippling integration with QuickBooks).
• Provide high-level oversight of the organization's IT systems, vendors, and liability insurances, utilizing the administrative team for support.
• Maintain high-level oversight of facilities budgets, leases, and safety compliance, while leveraging the Administrator to manage day-to-day facility operations, maintenance, and space planning.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Manager