Controller / VP of Finance

About the Organization

NAMI San Diego & Imperial Counties is a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of those impacted by mental illnesses through education, support, and advocacy at no cost.

Role Overview

This leadership role combines hands-on accounting management with strategic financial oversight to ensure the organization's fiscal health and compliance. The Controller / VP of Finance will maintain financial integrity, oversee nonprofit accounting operations, manage grant and fund accounting, and collaborate closely with executive leadership on strategic financial planning and sustainability.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage all accounting functions including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and closing processes adhering to GAAP and nonprofit standards.
• Lead preparation of accurate financial statements, asset classifications, internal controls, and annual audits.
• Supervise grant tracking, compliance with restrictions, budgeting, reporting, and collaboration with program teams to ensure appropriate fund allocation.
• Direct organizational budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, financial modeling, and key performance indicator tracking for leadership and board review.
• Partner with the CEO and leadership to develop financial strategies supporting fundraising, program expansion, and organizational sustainability.
• Monitor cash flow, maintain banking and investment relationships, and align funding cycles with operational needs.
• Ensure compliance with IRS, federal, and state regulations, oversee risk management policies and fraud prevention.
• Implement and enhance financial systems, reporting tools, and processes to support growth and transparency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and accounting team fostering accountability and collaboration.

Additional Information

• Physical demands include extended sitting, occasional lifting up to 15 pounds, and access to multiple facility areas.
• Reports directly to the President/CEO.
• Due to work with vulnerable groups and contractual requirements, successful candidates must pass a background check before employment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; MBA preferred.
• CPA certification strongly preferred.
• 8 to 15+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience, with demonstrated nonprofit expertise.
• Proficiency in fund accounting, grant management, donor-restricted funds, and experience engaging with Boards of Directors.
• Strong skills in financial modeling, audit preparation, GAAP, accrual accounting, fixed assets, budget preparation, and accounting best practices.
• Excellent communication abilities, both verbal and written.
• Competent with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel), QuickBooks Online, Ramp, and web navigation.
• Reliable transportation and ability to balance hands-on tasks with strategic oversight.
• Detail-oriented, process-driven, and ethical with high integrity and confidentiality.
• Flexible availability for occasional extended hours as needed.