Cornerstone Fund Controller, Application Close: August 28, 2026

United Church of Christ, National•Cleveland, OH

14d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Controller is responsible for the day-to-day management of the organization's accounting operations and for the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of its financial records and reporting. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller manages the general ledger, month-end and year-end close, internal financial reporting, budgeting support, and compliance with GAAP, donor restrictions, and grant requirements. The Controller also plays a key role in maintaining strong internal controls and supporting the annual independent audit, ensuring the organization's financial operations run efficiently and in support of its mission. This is an individual-contributor role with no direct reports.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
A minimum of 3-5 years of progressively responsible accounting experience.
Strong working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit fund accounting.
Experience preparing for and supporting an annual independent audit, including preparation of schedules and supporting documentation.
Proficiency with accounting software/ERP systems (e.g., Trinergy, Blackbaud Financial Edge, or similar) and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
A strong willingness to become a super-user of software.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with high attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-financial staff, board members, and external stakeholders.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across departments in a small-team environment.
Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, and the ability to work effectively within a diverse, mission-driven environment.

Nice To Haves

Nonprofit or fund accounting experience preferred.
Experience managing restricted grants and contracts is a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, and general ledger maintenance, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process, including preparation and review of journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statements in accordance with GAAP and, where applicable, fund accounting principles.
Prepare timely and accurate internal financial reports for the CFO/Executive Director and Finance & Loan Committee, including variance analysis against budget.
Support the annual budgeting process in partnership with the CFO and program/department leaders; monitor actual results against budget throughout the year and flag variances.
Manage restricted and unrestricted fund accounting, ensuring proper tracking, allocation, and release of net assets in compliance with donor restrictions and grant terms.
Serve as a primary point of contact for the annual independent audit: provide audit-related documents and support schedules, prepare footnotes, and respond to auditor requests in a timely manner.
Provide support for internal audit functions by reviewing account reconciliations, financial reports, and underlying records for completeness and accuracy, and assist in preparing financial statements for Finance Committee and Board meetings.
Maintain a robust system of internal controls and accounting policies and procedures to safeguard organizational assets and ensure the integrity of financial data.
Monitor cash flow and liquidity, including tracking of operating reserves and any lines of credit.
Administer and reconcile grant and contract accounting, including tracking of spend-down schedules, reimbursement requests, and financial reporting to funders.
Serve as the organization's point of contact for banking relationships, insurance renewals, and other third-party financial service providers.
Evaluate and recommend improvements to accounting systems, software, and processes to increase efficiency and reporting capability.
Support the CFO in preparing materials for Board and Finance & Loan Committee meetings, and attend such meetings as requested to present financial information.
Act as a reliable backup to the CFO on financial matters as needed, taking on additional duties to ensure the smooth operation of financial processes.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Financial Officer.