Controller

Connect United • Westborough, MA • Full Time

3 hours ago

Controller Job Description

Financial Management & Reporting 

 

  1. Accounting Operations & Monthly Close 
  • Own the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process, delivering accurate financial statements according to an established close calendar. 
  • Maintain the general ledger and Chart of Accounts, ensuring consistent coding across campuses, ministries, departments, and funds. 
  • Prepare and review reconciliations for bank, credit card/PEX, payroll liability, and all balance sheet accounts. 
  • Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, expense reimbursements, and the recording of contributions. 

 

  1. Financial Reporting & Analysis 
  • Produce monthly financial statements and budget-vs-actual reports by campus, department, and fund. 
  • Prepare clear financial reports for the Lead Pastor & President, Lead Team, Finance Committee, and Board of Directors. 
  • Analyze trends in giving, expenses, and cash flow, and provide recommendations to leadership. 
  • Track restricted, designated, and grant funds to ensure proper use and accurate donor reporting. 

 

  1. Budgeting & Cash Management 
  • Lead the annual budget process in partnership with campus, ministry, and department leaders. 
  • Monitor cash flow, forecast liquidity needs, and manage operating and capital reserves. 
  • Support long-range financial planning, capital projects, and campus growth initiatives. 

 

  1. Audit, Tax & Compliance 
  • Serve as the primary liaison for the annual audit or financial review, preparing all schedules and supporting documentation. 

 

  • Ensure compliance with nonprofit GAAP, IRS requirements for churches (contribution statements, clergy housing allowances, 1099s), and Massachusetts reporting requirements. 
  • Oversee financial transactions, transfers, and reporting with CCM in the Dominican Republic. 
  • Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, payroll providers, and legal counsel as needed. 

 

Operations & Team Leadership 

 

  1. Internal Controls & Systems 
  • Design, document, and enforce internal controls, segregation of duties, and approval workflows. 
  • Maintain and update financial policies and procedures, including purchasing, expense, and contribution-handling procedures. 
  • Administer and improve the accounting, payroll, giving, and expense management platforms. 

 

  1. Payroll & Benefits Accounting 
  • Oversee payroll accuracy, including clergy tax considerations, benefit deductions, and 403(b) remittances. 
  • Reconcile payroll and benefits accounts and partner with HR on compensation and benefits data. 

 

  1. Team Leadership & Collaboration 
  • Supervise, train, and develop finance staff. 
  • Equip ministry leaders to manage their budgets and follow purchasing and expense policies. 
  • Model a culture of transparency, accountability, and excellent service. 


Qualifications

Required 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. 
  • 5-7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or controller-level role. 
  • Demonstrated experience leading the month-end close and managing an external audit. 
  • Thorough knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit financial reporting, and church-specific tax rules. 
  • Strong analytical skills and the ability to explain financial information to non-financial leaders. 
  • High integrity and discretion in handling confidential information. 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; able to manage multiple deadlines. 
  • Advanced proficiency in Excel and accounting software; proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint). 
  • Fluency in English. 
  • Must pass all clearances and background checks required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

 

Preferred 

  • CPA or CMA 
  • Church or nonprofit accounting experience, including fund accounting, restricted gifts, and church-specific tax rules (clergy compensation, housing allowances, contribution statements). 
  • Payroll and benefits accounting experience, including 403(b) plans. 
  • Experience with [accounting, giving, payroll, and expense platforms] or implementing financial systems. 
  • Experience overseeing international or affiliated-entity finances. 
  • Fluency in Spanish. 


Salary & Benefits

$95,000 - $120,000

  • Health care
  • Vacation days
  • 403(b)
  • Life insurance
  • Professional development

Can be done remote?

  • No

About Connect United Church

Non-denominational • 1000+ people

We exist to connect the disconnected.