Controller

TheCouncil on Foreign Relations(CFR)is seekingaControllerwho willprovide strategic and operational leadership over CFR27s accounting, payroll, and accounts receivable/payable functions, ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of the organization27s financial records and reporting. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller leads the financial close and reporting cycle,maintainsa strong internal control environment, and oversees accounting treatment for grants, cost allocations, and investments.

This role combines technical accounting expertise withpeopleleadership and process improvement responsibilities. The Controller manages and develops a high-performing accounting organization while partnering closely with FP&A, programs, development, and external auditors to support CFR27s mission, growthobjectives, and financial stewardship.

This full-time position is based in CFR27sNew York Cityofficefourdaysper week.Tuesdays, Wednesdays,and Thursdaysareinstitutional anchor days where all staffare required tobe onsite.

• Lead, mentor, and develop teams across Accounting, Payroll, and Accounts Receivable/Payable, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close and reporting cycles, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable accounting standards.

• Establish,maintain, and enhance accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to mitigate financial and operational risk.

• Ensureaccuraterecording and reporting of all grant activity, cost allocations, and indirect cost methodologies in alignment with funder requirements and organizational policies.

• Oversee accounts receivable and accounts payable processes, including revenue recognition, release of restricted funds, segregation of duties, and compliance with CFR policies (e.g., expense policies).

• Supervise payroll operations, including timekeeping, deductions, benefits-related accounting, and related audits, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance.

• Partner closely with the FP&A Director to ensure strong alignment between accounting actuals, cost allocations, IDC methodologies,analytics,and strategic financing activities.

• Lead the annual external audit process and oversee preparation of required financial statements,990,compliance filings, and regulatory reports.

• Oversee cash and investment accounting and reporting, including review of cash activity, investment transactions, and related financial insights.

• Champion automation and process improvements across accounting, payroll, and AR/AP systems to improve efficiency, timeliness, and data integrity.

• Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

Education

• Bachelor27s degree in Accounting, Finance, ora relatedfieldrequired.Master27s degree preferred.
• CPA or equivalent professional certificationstronglypreferred.

Experience

• At least10 years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership responsibility.
• Demonstrated experience managing and developing accounting, payroll, and AR/AP professionals.
• Significant experiencein nonprofitorgrant-basedorganizations, withstrongknowledge of nonprofit accounting standards.
• Proventrack recordoverseeing financial close, audits, compliance filings, and internal control frameworks.
• Experience partnering with FP&A and senior leadership to ensure consistency between accounting results and financial planning.

Related Skills & Other Requirements

• Strongpeoplemanagement skills, including team leadership, coaching, performance management, and talent development.
• Deepexpertisein accounting operations, financial controls, and compliance within a nonprofit or grant-funded environment.
• Ability toidentifyand implement process improvements and automation to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across finance and non-finance stakeholders.
• Advanced technology skills.experiencewith Microsoft Dynamics preferred.
• High attention to detail combined with the ability to think strategically andanticipateorganizational needs.
• Strong judgment, integrity, and commitment to CFR27s mission and values.

Please submit a rsumand cover letter stating your interest in the position.

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $230,000 6 $250,000, depending on experience.
• In addition to competitive salaries, the Council on Foreign Relations offers a benefits package that is among the best offered by nonprofit institutions today, including an award-winning health and wellness program, an on-site fitness center, and generous leave policies and health insurance programs.