Controller – Nonprofit Finance & Investments

Controller

Position Overview

In support of Montana Community Foundation’s mission to create a culture of giving so Montana communities can flourish, the Controller is responsible for the oversight, accuracy, and integrity of all financial accounting and reporting functions. Reporting to the Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration, the Controller plays a key leadership role in developing, executing, and evaluating the finance department’s annual work plan and in ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of accounting systems and internal controls.

MCF places equal importance on professional expertise and personal attitude. Employees are expected to bring strong skills, a collaborative mindset, and respectful communication to their work. Each team member contributes meaningfully to the Foundation’s success and to the communities it serves.

Responsibilities

The Controller ensures the accuracy of all financial records, including the general ledger, grants, gifts, fund accounting, investments, and payroll analysis. This role maintains compliance with federal and state regulations, generally accepted accounting principles, Board policies, and nonprofit industry standards. The Controller is responsible for maintaining a strong system of internal controls to safeguard the Foundation’s assets and for managing accounting calendars to ensure that all internal and external deadlines are met.

In addition, the Controller assists with preparation and quarterly review of the annual operating budget, supports elements of the annual endowment payout process, and manages preparation of materials for the annual audit and IRS Form 990 filings. The role also serves as a secondary liaison to financial advisors and service providers, monitors investment balances, and periodically rebalances assets in accordance with Foundation guidelines, including the Impact Investing Process. Financial and investment analysis is conducted regularly for leadership review, and the Controller assists with the development and implementation of impact investing policies and procedures.

The Controller supervises the Senior Accountant, Senior Accountant – Level 2, and Finance Associate, providing leadership, guidance, and support to ensure strong team performance and professional growth.

Qualifications

This position requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting or an equivalent combination of education and experience, along with at least seven years of experience managing financial reporting, accounting operations, and financial statement analysis in a complex environment. A minimum of five years of supervisory experience is required. The successful candidate will have advanced knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit fund accounting, budgeting, UPMIFA, payroll and benefits principles, and automated accounting systems.

Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to evaluate complex information and exercise sound judgment are essential. The Controller must be able to plan, prioritize, meet deadlines, supervise others effectively, and build constructive relationships with internal and external stakeholders. A commitment to ethical decision-making, continuous improvement, and collaborative leadership is critical to success in this role.

Travel and Benefits

This position is based in Helena, Montana, and requires occasional travel throughout the state. Montana Community Foundation offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan; Health Savings Account; short- and long-term disability coverage; and a generous paid time off program.

How to Apply

See attachment for full description and submission instructions. Please submit a cover letter, current resume, and three professional references via email to daphne@mtcf.org Review of applications will begin on March 9, 2026.