Controller

A Hiring Company; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A nonprofit organization is seeking a Controller in Greater Cleveland to lead a finance team and manage financial reporting and compliance. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of financial leadership experience, preferably in the nonprofit sector, and possess strong analytical and strategic thinking skills. Responsibilities include preparing financial statements, managing treasury operations, and supporting regulatory compliance. A Bachelor's degree is required; CPA or MBA is preferred. This position is hybrid, requiring 3 days in the office.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, preferably in nonprofit.
• Experience managing a high-performing finance team required.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex data.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial management and reporting including budget alignments.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements and dashboards.
• Oversee treasury management and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Financial analysis

Communication

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

CPA or MBA preferred

Tools

Sage Intacct

Excel

Job description

Overview

Department: Finance

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

Location: Greater Cleveland (Hybrid – 3 days in office)

Controller

Department: Finance

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

Location: Greater Cleveland (Hybrid – 3 days in office)

About JumpStart Inc.

JumpStart is a nonprofit venture development organization driving economic vitality by connecting entrepreneurs to the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. We envision Ohio as a premier destination for entrepreneurs—where businesses thrive, supported by an inclusive and impactful innovation ecosystem.

Our success is fueled by a mission-driven team that brings creativity, expertise, and accountability to transforming entrepreneurial ideas into measurable outcomes.

Position Summary

The Controller partners closely with the Chief Financial Officer and senior leaders across the organization to support JumpStart\'s mission through strong financial stewardship. This role blends hands-on operational execution with strategic advisory support, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance, and transparency across all programs and business lines.

Key Responsibilities

Finance Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team.
• Ensure accurate, timely financial reporting in compliance with GAAP/GAAS and applicable regulations.
• Design and implement financial analysis and reporting tools that provide visibility to business leaders.
• Partner with the Senior Director of Revenue and Compliance to support grant reporting and compliance.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, dashboards, and board materials.
• Lead Monthly Operating Reviews with senior leadership to ensure budget alignment and financial transparency.
• Collaborate with the CFO on annual budgets, quarterly forecasts, and financial planning initiatives.
• Partner with HR to ensure accurate payroll and benefits reporting and compliance.
• Oversee treasury management, including cash flow, investments, and banking relationships.
• Manage fund accounting, intercompany transactions, reconciliations, and consolidated reporting.
• Evaluate and optimize financial systems and tools, including leveraging automation and AI where appropriate.
• Design and oversee financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure regulatory compliance.

External Reporting & Compliance

• Lead the annual audit process and preparation of Form 990 and other required filings.
• Support timely invoicing, billing, collections, and external financial reporting.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Maintain and enhance general ledger structures and reporting frameworks.
• Build strong working relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners.

Required Qualifications

• Willingness to live and work in Greater Cleveland.
• Comfortable working in a hybrid environment (3 days in office).
• Bachelor\'s degree required; CPA or MBA preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive financial leadership experience; nonprofit experience strongly preferred.
• Prior people management and supervisory experience.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with Sage Intacct is a plus.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• High integrity with the ability to manage confidential and sensitive information.
• Ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable insights.
• Strong operational execution combined with strategic perspective.
• Collaborative leadership style with empathy and sound judgment.
• Advanced Excel and spreadsheet skills; proficiency with accounting systems and databases required.

Direct Reports

• Senior Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Finance Associate

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

JumpStart Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.

JumpStart encourages individuals from historically underrepresented and marginalized communities to apply.

Compensation details: 120000-140000