Strategic Nonprofit Controller & Finance Leader

Pathways for Children; Gloucester (MA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Pathways for Children in Gloucester, MA is seeking a seasoned Controller to lead the accounting team and partner with the Director of Finance on strategic financial planning. The role focuses on internal controls, grant accounting, and accurate financial reporting to sustain organizational mission.

The Controller will oversee core accounting functions, support external audits, ensure grant compliance, and mentor staff while driving process improvements across the finance department.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• CPA or CPA candidate preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
• Experience within a nonprofit organization preferred.
• Experience leading external audits and managing complex financial reporting processes.
• Experience with grant accounting and state and federal contracts.
• Prior supervisory experience and demonstrated ability to collaborate with executive leadership strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily accounting operations, including general ledger maintenance, account reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, cash receipts, and payroll processing completed by the Accounting Assistant.
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, financial policies, and accounting procedures to support organizational growth and compliance.
• Partner with the Director of Finance on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, financial modeling, and long-range planning.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and lead the annual financial statement audit.
• Manage accounting and fiscal compliance for Development Department fundraising and private grant awards, including restricted gifts.
• Monitor grant performance and support program leaders in understanding financial results and requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial systems, reporting capabilities, workflow efficiency, and organizational effectiveness.

Skills

Leadership

Financial analysis

Grant accounting

Internal controls

Staff mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

CPA or CPA candidate

Job description

Pathways for Children in Gloucester, MA is seeking a seasoned Controller to lead the accounting team and partner with the Director of Finance on strategic financial planning. The role focuses on internal controls, grant accounting, and accurate financial reporting to sustain organizational mission.

The Controller will oversee core accounting functions, support external audits, ensure grant compliance, and mentor staff while driving process improvements across the finance department.