Controller

Habitat for Humanity International; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Habitat for Humanity International in Asheville is seeking a seasoned Controller to lead the organization’s accounting and financial reporting, enhance internal controls, and strengthen financial systems during a transition period with a fractional CFO.

The role oversees budgeting, audit preparation, compliance, cash management, and program financial support, reporting to the COO and building a high‑performing accounting team.

Qualifications

• Seven+ years progressive accounting experience and leadership.
• Bachelor's degree required; CPA/CMA preferred.
• Experience with audits and nonprofit accounting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations including payroll, GL, AP/AR.
• Lead budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Ensure GAAP compliance and audit readiness.
• Develop and mentor accounting staff.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Excel proficiency

Accounting software

Analytical skills

Nonprofit accounting

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting

Tools

ERP systems

Mortgage accounting software

Job description

Job Description

The Controller serves as Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity’s senior internal finance leader and is accountable for reliable financial systems, accurate reporting, disciplined accounting operations and development of the accounting team. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Controller oversees accounting operations, internal controls, financial reporting, cash management, budgeting support, audit preparation, compliance and supervision of the Accounting Department. During the initial 6-12 months, the Controller and Chief Operating Officer will work alongside a Fractional Chief Financial Officer to strengthen internal financial capacity and prepare the organization for long-term financial leadership.

Responsibilities

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the organization’s accounting function, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, the general ledger, fixed assets and mortgage-servicing accounting.
• Maintain accurate financial records, effective internal controls and compliance with GAAP and organizational accounting policies.
• Manage accounting systems, procedures and documentation that support efficient operations and business continuity.

Financial Reporting & Budget Administration

• Produce timely, accurate financial statements, forecasts and reports that support sound decision-making by staff, the Finance Committee, and the Board of Directors.
• Lead the annual operating and capital budget process, including coordination with department leaders, budget reporting and budget-to-actual analysis.
• Provide accurate financial information and analysis to support strategic planning, grant reporting, lender reporting and other organizational needs.

Audit, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with financial reporting, audit, regulatory, lender, grantor, insurance and Habitat for Humanity International requirements.
• Maintain a strong system of internal controls that protects organizational assets and reduces financial risk.
• Identify financial risks and compliance issues and recommend appropriate corrective actions.

Accounting Department Leadership

• Lead, develop, and evaluate the Accounting Department to ensure accurate, timely and responsive financial services.
• Build a high-performing team through coaching, cross-training, succession planning and continuous improvement.
• Manage staffing, performance and professional development within the Accounting Department.

Organizational & Program Support

• Provide financial leadership and accounting support for the organization’s housing development, construction, mortgage lending and repair programs, including programs with designated funding and funds held for other agencies.
• Provide financial information and documentation needed to support real estate transactions, development financing, funding requests and reports, and organizational planning.
• Partner with department leaders to strengthen financial understanding and support effective operational decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field.
• Minimum seven years of progressive accounting experience.
• Minimum three years of supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles.
• Experience managing audits.
• Strong Excel and accounting-software proficiency.
• Excellent analytical, organizational and communication skills.
• Experience with nonprofit accounting.

Preferred

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience in affordable housing, real estate development, mortgage lending, or construction accounting.
• Experience supporting boards, finance committees or external auditors.
• Experience implementing or improving accounting systems and financial processes.

Compensation

• Annual compensation range is $90,000 - $140,000 per year based on experience.