Overview

We are recruiting a Controller for a well-established Nonprofit organization in the Raleigh market to lead and strengthen the accounting function. Reporting to executive leadership, this hands-on role will oversee the financial operations while building the processes, reporting, and internal controls needed to support the organization's continued growth and long-term mission. This is an excellent opportunity for a collaborative accounting leader who enjoys improving processes, creating structure, and making a meaningful impact within a purpose-driven organization. Key Responsibilities Own and execute core accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger activities. Manage cash activity, banking relationships, and account reconciliations while ensuring accuracy and strong financial controls. Lead end-to-end payroll processing and ensure compliance with all related tax filings and regulatory requirements. Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and oversee the month-end and year-end close processes. Develop and enhance financial reporting that delivers meaningful insights to executive leadership and the Board. Lead the annual budgeting process and strengthen forecasting and financial planning capabilities. Partner cross-functionally to improve financial visibility and support informed operational decision-making. Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and other partners to ensure timely reporting, compliance, and successful audits. Design and implement scalable accounting processes, internal controls, and policies that support organizational growth and operational excellence. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field; CPA required. Experience in nonprofit accounting, including familiarity with fund accounting and nonprofit financial reporting. 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including success in a hands-on accounting leadership role. Demonstrated ability to build or improve accounting processes, systems, and reporting within a growing or evolving organization. Determining compensation for this role (and others) at Vaco/Highspring depends upon a wide array of factors including but not limited to the individual's skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, office location and other geographic considerations, as well as other business and organizational needs. With that said, as required by local law in geographies that require salary range disclosure, Vaco/Highspring notes the salary range for the role is noted in this job posting. The individual may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, and can participate in medical, dental, and vision benefits as well as the company's 401(k) retirement plan. Additional disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted in the job description, the position Vaco/Highspring is filing for is occupied. Please note, however, that Vaco/Highspring is regularly asked to provide talent to other organizations. By submitting to this position, you are agreeing to be included in our talent pool for future hiring for similarly qualified positions. Submissions to this position are subject to the use of AI to perform preliminary candidate screenings, focused on ensuring minimum job requirements noted in the position are satisfied. Further assessment of candidates beyond this initial phase within Vaco/Highspring will be otherwise assessed by recruiters and hiring managers. Vaco/Highspring does not have knowledge of the tools used by its clients in making final hiring decisions and cannot opine on their use of AI products. EEO Notice Vaco by Highspring is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race (including but not limited to traits historically associated with race such as hair texture and hair style), color, sex (includes pregnancy or related conditions), religion or creed, national origin, citizenship, age,