Controller

Job DescriptionJob Description Controller Nonprofit Organization | Education Libertyville, Illinois | 100% On-Site (5 days/week) The Opportunity A financially strong, mission-driven nonprofit organization in the education sector is seeking a hands-on Controller to re-establish on-site controllership and lead the full accounting function. This is a rare opportunity to join an exceptionally stable, well-run institution known for long employee tenure, excellent work-life balance, meaningful benefits, and a humane, values-driven leadership culture. Reporting directly to the CFO, the Controller will own day-to-day accounting operations, lead a small team, and fully assume responsibility for endowment and treasury accounting. The organization places a high premium on emotional intelligence, presence, and collaboration. This is intentionally a working Controller role-not a review-only or purely strategic position. Key Objectives Re-establish strong, on-site controllership Own full month-end close and nonprofit GAAP accounting Lead, stabilize, and develop a small accounting team Oversee endowment accounting and treasury activity Reduce operational burden on the CFO Serve as a calm, credible accounting leader in a highly stable environment Core Responsibilities Lead full GAAP nonprofit accounting and month-end close Oversee endowment accounting, fund activity, and treasury operations Manage audit readiness and coordination with external auditors Supervise and develop AP, AR, and GL staff Maintain strong internal controls and accounting processes Partner with leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and Finance Committee reporting Support compliance, reporting, and donor-restricted fund tracking Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting (non-negotiable) Prior nonprofit accounting experience Demonstrated people leadership experience (ideally ~3+ years) Comfort leading AP, AR, and GL functions Hands-on ownership of month-end close Strong emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership style Professional presence and comfort working in an on-site campus environment Preferred / Nice-to-Have Experience Endowment accounting exposure (commonly gained in nonprofit schools, foundations, museums, faith-based organizations, or long-established nonprofits) CPA and/or public accounting or audit background Experience in independent schools, higher education, or complex nonprofits Strong Excel skills and general systems aptitude

Compensation Base Salary:

$125,000 - $140,000 Stretch for exceptional fit: up to ~$145,000

Bonus:

None The organization emphasizes total compensation value rather than cash alone. Work Environment 100% on-site, five days per week Typical hours: approximately 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Practical, real-world flexibility for personal needs (e.g., child pick-ups) Limited future flexibility possible but not guaranteed or advertised Free on-site parking Exceptional Benefits 403(b) retirement plan with 10% employer contribution when employee contributes 4% Heavily subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance Approximately 30 days of PTO plus holidays Free on-site meals Tuition remission for qualified students Culture grounded in trust, balance, and long-term retention Additional Context Long-tenured, stable leadership team Culture prioritizes humility, EQ, and consistency over rapid career advancement Ideal for someone seeking a long-term professional home Not a fit for candidates seeking fast title progression or remote work Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, please visit: https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate-privacy

Pay Details:

$125,000.00 to $140,000.00 per year Search managed by: Katherine Bowman Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled Military connected talent encouraged to apply To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.lhh.com/us/en/candidate-privacy The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable: The California Fair Chance Act Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for

Employers San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance Massachusetts Candidates Only:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.