What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at Jewish Family Service of Metropolitan Detroit?
Job Description
Controller
Leads Finance Department of 9 FTEs and directly supervises the following roles: Accounting Manager, Homecare Billing Specialists
Summary:
The Controller leads the finance department to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the organization’s financial reporting. Reporting directly to the CFOO, the Controller leads the finance team, develops financial strategies, and ensures compliance with accounting standards, regulations, and internal controls. This role also involves budget management, cash flow optimization, audit coordination, and financial systems oversight to support the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management
Education and Experience
Technical Skills
Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit (“JFS”) is a nonprofit organization committed to providing comprehensive social services to individuals and families across Southeast Michigan. With a focus on enhancing the well-being of the community, JFS offers a range of programs in areas such as behavioral health, aging services and safety net services. Dedicated to compassion, respect, and integrity, JFS serves people of all backgrounds, creating a strong, inclusive community that fosters self-sufficiency and empowerment for those in need
Controller
Leads Finance Department of 9 FTEs and directly supervises the following roles: Accounting Manager, Homecare Billing Specialists
Summary:
The Controller leads the finance department to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the organization’s financial reporting. Reporting directly to the CFOO, the Controller leads the finance team, develops financial strategies, and ensures compliance with accounting standards, regulations, and internal controls. This role also involves budget management, cash flow optimization, audit coordination, and financial systems oversight to support the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the finance department to ensure efficient performance.
- Develop and enforce policies to maintain accurate accounts payable (A/P) and accounts receivable (A/R) balances.
- Review monthly trial balances to identify anomalies and ensure accuracy in the general ledger.
- Conduct short- and long-term cash flow forecasting to optimize liquidity and maximize returns.
- Manage banking relationships and oversee check-signing authority.
- Lead the annual budgeting process and provide ongoing variance analysis.
- Coordinate all aspects of the organization’s financial and single audits.
- Prepare audit work papers, footnotes, and financial statements.
- Ensure compliance with applicable IRS regulations and GAAP, especially for nonprofit and grant management.
- Oversee and maintain financial systems, including Intacct ERP and myEvolv (Netsmart).
- Implement updates and improvements to optimize system capabilities and reporting.
- Ensure accuracy and effective utilization of financial data.
- Directly supervise, train, and support finance staff to foster a high-performing and motivated team.
- Handle hiring, promotions, disciplinary actions, and performance evaluations.
- Provide financial guidance to department managers and officers.
- Prepare and file required tax documents, including agency 5500 and 89SSA filings for legacy retirement plans.
- Stay current on regulatory changes affecting nonprofit finance.
- Assist in developing long-range financial strategies to support organizational goals.
- Prepare and present financial reports to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accuracy
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or Business Administration (master’s preferred).
- CPA designation is highly preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years of financial management experience, with a strong preference for nonprofit experience.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in GAAP, specifically as it applies to nonprofits.
- Advanced Excel skills and experience with enterprise general ledger systems (e.g., Intacct).
- Strong understanding of IRS regulations related to federal grants and nonprofit compliance.
- Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Effective time management to meet deadlines and support agency operations.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams.
- Mission-driven and dedicated to supporting the organization’s values and goals.
- Proactive and responsive in addressing requests and challenges.
- Commitment to cost control and resource optimization.
Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit (“JFS”) is a nonprofit organization committed to providing comprehensive social services to individuals and families across Southeast Michigan. With a focus on enhancing the well-being of the community, JFS offers a range of programs in areas such as behavioral health, aging services and safety net services. Dedicated to compassion, respect, and integrity, JFS serves people of all backgrounds, creating a strong, inclusive community that fosters self-sufficiency and empowerment for those in need
