Controller (Remote)

About the Role

Charity Water is seeking an experienced Controller to lead the organization's accounting operations and ensure the timeliness, accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial reporting. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will oversee all accounting functions for both US and UK entities, manage a high-performing accounting team, and partner closely with cross-functional leaders to support effective financial operations. This is a critical leadership position for a mission-driven nonprofit organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Accounting Operations: Manage day-to-day accounting operations in full compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements, ensuring accuracy of the general ledger and financial statements.
• Month-End Close Process: Own the monthly close process and provide timely, accurate financial data to the FP&A team for variance analysis and reporting.
• Team Leadership: Build, manage, coach, and develop a high-performing accounting team serving both US and UK entities. Foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Audit & Compliance Management: Lead the annual external audit process, ensure timely completion of all regulatory filings including IRS Form 990, and manage external compliance requirements such as tax receipts, 1099s, and state registrations.
• Internal Controls Design & Implementation: Design, implement, and maintain robust internal controls that safeguard organizational assets and support effective financial stewardship.
• Systems & Workflow Optimization: Support implementation and optimization of accounting and financial reporting systems (e.g., NetSuite), maintain system security and controls, and optimize the chart of accounts to support critical business needs.
• Accounts Management: Oversee accounts payable and receivable, payroll processing, restricted fund accounting, and treasury operations with related internal controls.
• Policy Development: Develop and maintain policies and training related to procurement, payments, employee expenses, and supporting processes.
• Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Identify and assess accounting, compliance, and operational risks, recommending improvements across financial operations.
• Stakeholder Relations: Manage relationships with external partners including Charity Navigator and external auditors. Collaborate across the organization to support cross-functional initiatives.
• Insurance Portfolio Management: Maintain the organization's insurance portfolio to ensure adequate coverage and protections.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including nonprofit accounting experience
• Active CPA license
• Successful track record managing clean financial statement audits and strong internal controls expertise
• Demonstrated experience partnering with senior leadership on financial strategy and operations
• Strong understanding of nonprofit accounting principles, restricted funds, and regulatory compliance
• Proficiency with modern accounting systems and ERP platforms
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

About Charity Water

Charity Water is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing clean drinking water and sanitation to people in Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. The organization combines cutting-edge technology, innovative funding models, and on-the-ground partnerships to create lasting impact. Working at Charity Water means contributing to a purpose-driven mission while maintaining the highest standards of financial stewardship and operational excellence.

Work Environment

This is a fully remote position available to candidates in the United States. You'll have the flexibility to work from anywhere within the US while collaborating with a talented, mission-focused team. The role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on global water security while building and leading a strong accounting function.

💰 Compensation not publicly listed. Market estimate for similar roles: from $80K, varying by experience and location.