Controller

Location: Arlington Heights, IL

Hours: Full time, Monday - Friday, standard business hours (35hours/week)

Pay: $100,000-120,000/Year

Clearbrook is a non-profit, social services agency that is dedicated to providing innovative services, tools and opportunities 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

• 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.
  
  

Accounting Operations

• 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.
  
  

Internal Controls & Compliance

• 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.
  
  

Team Leadership

• 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.
  
  

System Optimization

• 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.
  
  

Other Duties

• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the CFO to support Clearbrook’s mission.
• Act in the CFO’s absence as necessary.
  
  

Required Qualifications

Education

• Minimum: Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
  
  

Experience

• 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.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• 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.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.
  
  

Attitude & Attributes

• 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.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

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