Controller

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a Controller to lead our accounting operations and strengthen DBEDC’s finance function in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Controller will oversee all day-to-day accounting, manage a team of three accountants, and ensure financial processes remain accurate, scalable, and aligned with GAAP and nonprofit best practices.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on operational excellence, system improvements, and mentoring staff, while also ensuring compliance, accuracy, and accountability across a multi-entity structure that includes nonprofit operations, affordable housing development partnerships, and small business lending.

What you can expect to do in the role:

Accounting Operations & Financial Oversight

• Manage general ledger, reconciliations, cash, payroll, receivables, contracts, and grants in accordance with GAAP.
• Ensure strong internal controls and produce timely financial reports for leadership and stakeholders.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning.

Real Estate and Lending Financial Support

• Oversee financials for real estate projects, including draws, certifications, and LIHTC accounting.
  Partner with Real Estate and Lending teams to ensure accurate tracking, reporting, and compliance.
• Provide financial analysis to inform strategic decisions.

Audit, Compliance & Vendor Relationships

• Lead preparation for annual audits and ensure compliance with all regulatory filings (e.g., IRS Form 990, Uniform Guidance).
• Manage relationships with auditors, consultants, banks, and vendors.

Policies, Procedures & Internal Controls

• Develop and update accounting policies and procedures.
• Standardize processes across entities for accuracy and efficiency.
• Strengthen internal controls and train Finance staff.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise, mentor, and develop three accountants.
• Provide feedback, coaching, and foster accountability and continuous learning.

Systems, Operations & Innovation

• Maintain and improve Sage Intacct and related systems.
• Lead automation and process improvements to enhance efficiency and reporting.

Resource Development & Donor Reporting

• Track, record, and report donations and grants, ensuring compliance with donor restrictions.
• Provide timely data for budgets, proposals, and grant reporting.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Present financial information to staff, leadership, board, and funders.
• Translate complex data into clear, accessible reports and materials.

QUALIFICATIONS

You’ll do well in this role if you:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and bring 7+ years of progressive experience, including at least 4 years as a Controller or senior finance leader in a nonprofit with a $7M+ budget.
• Have 3+ years of experience managing and developing people, and you thrive on building strong, accountable teams.
• Are fluent in GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and compliance.
• Hands-on experience with federal and state contracts, audits (including Single Audits and multi-entity), and tax-exempt industry practices.
• Strong organizational skills, accuracy, and attention to detail.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills with strategic thinking ability.
• High technology acumen, including proficiency in Sage Intacct (or similar), advanced Excel, and familiarity with Salesforce or other integrated cloud systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to explain financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.
• High personal accountability, integrity, and sound judgment, bringing a collaborative and diplomatic approach.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-growth environment with competing priorities.

You’ll stand out if you:

• Have experience in mission-oriented or social impact lending.
• Understanding of Boston’s small business ecosystem.
• Are familiar with allocations of shared costs and U.S. government negotiated indirect rates.
• Brings experience with multi-entity accounting, intercompany transactions, and asset management.

Other important details:

• Don’t be discouraged from applying if you don’t “check all the boxes”. We appreciate the uniqueness of candidates and there is no “perfect" resume!
• Salary range: $140,000 – $160,000.

LIVING OUR VALUES

At DBEDC, our culture is grounded in shared values:

• Accountability: We take ownership of our words, actions, and their impacts.
• Curiosity: We ask questions, try new things, and learn from experience.
• Collaboration: We build trusting relationships internally and externally.
• Transparency: We communicate directly, honestly, and with clarity.
• Innovation: We embrace change, challenge convention, and adapt with intention.

BENEFITS

DBEDC proudly offers a total compensation package that goes above and beyond, supporting your health, wellbeing, and work-life balance. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Health and Wellness

• Choose from several generous medical insurance packages with no waiting period.
• Employer-paid dental and vision coverage to keep you smiling.
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts and the Dependent Care Assistance Program for added flexibility.
• Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, and Accidental Death coverage for peace of mind.
• On-demand Employee Wellbeing Services to help you thrive.

Lifestyle and Perks

• Access exclusive discounts through our Perks at Work Program.
• Enjoy a flexible hybrid work environment, balancing work and life with ease.

Time Off That Works for You

• Generous amount of vacation time to recharge and relax.
• Seventeen paid holidays, including your birthday, because you deserve to celebrate.
• Fifteen sick days for when you need to rest and recover.
• Three personal days for life’s unexpected moments.
• Five volunteer days to give back.

Future-Focused Benefits

• Save for your future with our 403(b) retirement plan, featuring a generous employer contribution.

Professional Development

• Grow your career with access to professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and training programs.
• Collaborate and learn in a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and skill- building.

At DBEDC, we’re not just offering benefits, we’re investing in you! Join us and experience a workplace that values your wellbeing and success while building a brighter future for Dorchester and beyond!

ABOUT DORCHESTER BAY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (DBEDC)

DBEDC is a Community Development Corporation (CDC) and a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). Founded in 1979, we work to build a strong, thriving, and diverse community in Boston’s North Dorchester and Roxbury neighborhoods. We develop and preserve, home ownership and rental housing across income levels. We create and sustain economic development opportunities for businesses and individuals. We build community through organizing, civic engagement, and leadership development.

We are one of Boston’s legacy agencies and most established community development organizations, with an annual operating budget of approximately $11 million and a staff of 30.

At DBEDC, we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds and experiences, including those from unconventional career paths and anyone who can bring fresh perspectives and lived experiences to our team. Together, we aim to build an organization that reflects and celebrates the vibrancy of the communities we serve.