Controller

Arha; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 93,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

ARHA in Alexandria, VA seeks an experienced Controller to oversee the Finance Department, ensuring GAAP, GASB, and HUD compliance. The role leads budgeting, reporting, audits, and internal controls while guiding staff and supporting long-term financial planning.

The position offers a salary up to $155,000 annually, commensurate with experience, and reports to the Director of Finance. Strong public housing or nonprofit finance background is highly valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of five years in progressively responsible accounting/finance management.
• Experience with HUD regulations and GASB standards preferred.
• CPA or advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Directs Finance Department operations, including staff supervision and development.
• Develops and manages the annual operating budget and supports decision-making.
• Oversees financial statements, audits, and closing processes.
• Coordinates external audits and ensures timely reporting.
• Implements internal controls and reporting improvements.
• Prepares complex reports for leadership, HUD, and regulatory bodies.
• Advises senior management on financial issues.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

GASB knowledge

Financial leadership

Financial analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting/Finance

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Yardi

Job description

ARHA Seeking Experienced Controller to Oversee Financial Management

Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Controller to join our Finance team. Under the direction of the Director of Finance, this individual will oversee the day-to-day financial operations of ARHA, ensuring compliance with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards. The Controller will lead financial reporting, audits, budgeting, and internal controls while supervising accounting staff and supporting long-term financial planning. The salary for this position is up to $155,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Key Responsibilities

In alignment with the duties of the position, the Controller will have the following essential responsibilities. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Directs Finance Department operations, including staff supervision, performance management, and professional development.
• Develops and manages the Department’s annual operating budget and provides financial analysis to support Agency decision‑making.
• Oversees preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and GASB, including the CAFR.
• Oversees core accounting functions such as the general ledger, subsidiary records, monthly and year‑end closing processes, and account reconciliations.
• Coordinates all phases of the annual external audit and ensures timely, accurate financial reporting.
• Reviews and enhances accounting systems, internal controls, and reporting procedures to improve financial accuracy and efficiency.
• Prepares and oversees complex financial, payroll, tax, and regulatory reports for Agency leadership, the Board of Commissioners, HUD, and other regulatory bodies.
• Coordinates HUD REAC submissions and public housing subsidy documentation to ensure compliance and timeliness.
• Serves as a financial advisor to senior management, analyzing issues and recommending solutions to support Agency operations.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; master’s degree preferred. Requires at least five (5) years of progressively responsible management experience in accounting and financial performance measurement.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA certification or advanced degree in a related field
• Experience working in public housing, government-funded housing programs, or nonprofit finance
• Familiarity with Yardi or similar financial/accounting software