What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at Clearbrook?
Clearbrook is a non-profit, social services agency that specializes in providing innovative services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as Autism and Down Syndrome.
Key Responsibilities
The Controller will report to the CFO and lead the business office in all aspects of financial operations. Key responsibilities include:
Financial Leadership
Required Qualifications:
Clearbrook offers a competitive compensation package, including:
It started as a dream for five families nearly 60 years ago. A chance for education. A way to connect with their peers. A path to self-sufficiency. A focus on ability – not disability. Today, Clearbrook is the largest provider in the state of Illinois of services, programs and support for children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. Five families paved the way. Since then, new milestones have been achieved everyday. What was thought impossible then is a part of everyday life for over 7,000 individuals and their families each year.
Key Responsibilities
The Controller will report to the CFO and lead the business office in all aspects of financial operations. Key responsibilities include:
Financial Leadership
- Assist with all financial reporting, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.
- Partner with the CFO to develop and execute financial strategies that align with Clearbrook’s mission and goals.
- Assist and collaborate with department directors to develop budgets, monitor financial performance, and identify and address variances.
- Direct and manage day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, purchasing, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger maintenance, and client benefits.
- Ensure accurate and timely financial statements for management, regulatory authorities, and stakeholders.
- Ensure proper reconciliation of balance sheet accounts and monthly bank reconciliations.
- Review, approve, and post journal entries and subsidiary ledgers.
- Maintain robust internal control systems to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
- Support external audits by preparing schedules, responding to inquiries, and addressing findings.
- Oversee compliance with tax regulations, including preparation of required schedules and annual 1099 filings.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence.
- Conduct training, performance evaluations, and capacity building to enhance team effectiveness.
- Implement and maintain accounting policies and procedures to ensure accuracy, consistency, and efficiency in financial operations.
- Evaluate and recommend financial software and tools to enhance reporting and automation capabilities.
- Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the CFO to support Clearbrook’s mission.
- Act in the CFO’s absence as necessary.
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum: Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- Preferred: Master’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- Minimum: 5-7 years of progressive accounting or finance experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
- Preferred: Experience with nonprofit or government-funded organizations is strongly preferred.
- Proficiency in accounting software and financial management systems (e.g., Blackbaud Financial Edge, Sage Intacct, or similar platforms).
- Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, macros, and financial modeling.
- Deep understanding of GAAP, fund accounting, and nonprofit financial reporting.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities, with acute attention to detail.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
- High ethical standards and commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrity.
- Knowledge of federal and state funding mechanisms for IDD services, including Medicaid waivers and grants.
- Experience in organizations with annual budgets exceeding $10 million.
- Familiarity with implementing or optimizing accounting software and automation tools.
- Proven track record in leading finance teams during organizational growth or transformation.
- Mission-driven with a passion for serving children and adults with IDD.
- Strategic thinker who can balance big-picture goals with operational details.
- Collaborative team player who fosters a culture of transparency, trust, and accountability.
- Adaptable and solutions-oriented, thriving in dynamic environments.
Clearbrook offers a competitive compensation package, including:
- Salary commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off, including holidays.
- Employer-funded retirement plan contributions.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
It started as a dream for five families nearly 60 years ago. A chance for education. A way to connect with their peers. A path to self-sufficiency. A focus on ability – not disability. Today, Clearbrook is the largest provider in the state of Illinois of services, programs and support for children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other intellectual/developmental disabilities. Five families paved the way. Since then, new milestones have been achieved everyday. What was thought impossible then is a part of everyday life for over 7,000 individuals and their families each year.
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