Lead accounting and financial operations for a large nonprofit, overseeing general ledger, reporting, FP&A, audits, compliance, ERP improvements, and a 12-person finance team while partnering with executive leadership and the Board.
GHJ Search and Staffing serves as the recruitment division of GHJ, a prominent national accounting and advisory firm. Our team provides qualified Accounting and Finance professionals on a temporary and permanent basis across a broad range of industries. GHJ’s relationship with our Global Advisory and Accounting Network provides the resources needed to better understand client’s needs, attract a higher caliber of candidates and assess candidate potential.
A large, mission-driven nonprofit is seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting and financial operations across a complex organization with multiple programs, funds, and grants. This is a high-visibility leadership opportunity for a finance executive who can bridge technical accounting expertise with strategic financial planning while building scalable systems and strong teams.
Reporting to the CFO, the Controller will oversee general ledger accounting, financial reporting, FP&A, AP/AR, cash collections, compliance, and financial systems. The role leads a team of 12 and partners closely with executive leadership, the Audit and Finance Committees, and the Board to deliver accurate reporting, strengthen controls, and support long-term organizational planning.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee accounting, financial reporting, FP&A, AP/AR, fixed assets, and month-end close
- Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and long-range financial planning
- Deliver financial reporting and actionable insights to executive leadership and the Board
- Lead the annual Single Audit, 403(b) audit, Form 990, and other regulatory reporting
- Develop and strengthen accounting policies, internal controls, and technical accounting processes
- Partner with department leaders on budgets, resource allocation, and financial performance
- Lead, mentor, and develop a 12-person finance team while promoting cross-training and operational efficiency
- Drive ERP, reporting, automation, and process improvements to support continued growth
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required
- Active CPA license required; MBA preferred
- 15–20+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including at least 3 years at the Controller or equivalent level
- Experience in a nonprofit environment; fiscal sponsorship experience strongly preferred
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls
- Experience with government grants, Uniform Guidance, and Single Audit requirements preferred
- Strong budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling skills
- Experience with Oracle Fusion or similar ERP systems
- Proven ability to lead large finance teams and communicate effectively with senior leadership
Why Join?
- Executive-level finance leadership role with significant organizational visibility
- Opportunity to influence strategy while strengthening financial infrastructure at scale
- Meaningful mission-driven environment where strong financial leadership directly supports community impact
GHJ San Jose, California, USA Office
50 W. San Fernando St., Suite 1350, San Jose, United States, 95113
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