Assistant Controller en Direct Relief

Why Join Direct Relief

At Direct Relief, you’ll play a pivotal role in supporting a mission that improves the health and lives of people affected by poverty and emergencies worldwide. This position offers the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team and contribute to the responsible management of resources that directly impact communities in need.

Overview

Direct Relief is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Controller to join our finance team. This role is critical in supporting the organization's mission by ensuring accurate financial management, compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, and effective stewardship of donor funds. The Assistant Controller will oversee day-to-day accounting operations, strengthen internal controls, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to support transparency and accountability in financial reporting.

This position is ideal for a professional who is passionate about using their accounting expertise to make a meaningful impact in the nonprofit sector.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with GAAP and FASB guidelines for nonprofits, including fund accounting and restricted fund management.
• Support the Controller and CFO in developing financial reports for the Board of Directors, management, and external stakeholders.
• Analyze financial results and provide actionable insights to support programmatic decision-making and organizational strategy.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of donor-restricted funds and provide reporting to donors and grantors as required.

 2. Accounting Operations

• Oversee all general ledger functions, including journal entries, reconciliations, and month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Manage key accounting functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and expense reimbursements.
• Monitor and reconcile restricted and unrestricted net assets, ensuring proper allocation of funds and compliance with donor intent.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of accounting data in the organization’s ERP or accounting system.
• Improve efficiency of processes and systems to support a growing and complex global organization.

 3. Compliance, Audit & Risk Management

• Prepare for and coordinate annual financial statement audits.
• Assist with timely filing of tax and regulatory reports, including IRS Form 990, 990-T, and state filings.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of accounting standards and nonprofit compliance requirements.
• Strengthen internal controls to protect organizational assets and ensure accountability for donor funds.

 4. Leadership & Team Development

• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering professional growth and a strong team culture.
• Collaborate with program, development, and operations teams to align financial processes with programmatic goals.
• Provide training and support to staff on compliance with finance and accounting policies.

 5. Strategic Support

• Assist the Controller and CFO in budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives to strengthen organizational sustainability and financial health.

 Qualifications

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA certification preferred.

Experience

• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience
• Experience in nonprofit accounting and fund accounting a plus.
• Experience preparing for annual audits and working with external auditors.
• Familiarity with grants management and donor reporting preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of internal control frameworks and compliance reporting.
• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, Sage Intacct, or similar ERP systems).
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and PlanFul Budgeting tool a plus.

Soft Skills

• Exceptional attention to detail and analytical abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting to management, the Board, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a mission-driven environment.
• High ethical standards and commitment to transparency and accountability.