Controller

Description

Fulltime, Exempt 

Hybrid 4 days on site and one day remote

Reports to Chief Financial & Administrative Officer

Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) is seeking a passionate, driven individual with the desire to learn, grow, and excel in a culture that values every member of the team. DSF was named one of the Denver’s Top Workplaces in 2025 (6 year recipient of Top Workplaces), a testament to our team and to our intentionality in co-creating a positive, inclusive work environment. When you join the DSF team, you will enjoy a supportive, and innovative environment where your work has a profound impact on the lives of students and their families.

As a nonprofit organization, DSF’s mission is to inspire and empower DPS students to enroll in and graduate from postsecondary institutions of higher education, by providing the tools, knowledge, and financial resources essential for success. By embodying the core values of equity, innovation, leadership, learning, relationships, and integrity in everything we do, DSF strives to be a leader within the community. As we constantly seek to improve our services, we build strong relationships with college staff members, partners, students, team members and the broader community. We are committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, believing in the value and ability of all students and team members.

We seek candidates who will model, live, and reinforce DSF’s mission and core values with colleagues, students, families, and the broader community. If you are passionate about the philosophy and mission of DSF, then we invite you to join us and help make college possible for Denver's students.

Job Summary 

The Controller is a key member of the finance team, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting, finance, and tax functions for DSF with an annual budget exceeding $20 million. This position is involved with performing daily tasks while supervising a two-person accounting team and works closely with the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer (CFAO) to align team priorities and ensure operational efficiency. The Controller leads the monthly and year-end financial close processes, ensuring the preparation of timely, accurate financial statements and reports in support of organizational decision-making and compliance.

Responsibilities

Accounting Operations & Financial Management

• Manage all day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger maintenance.
• Oversee month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements.
• Maintain the chart of accounts and ensure financial data integrity across systems.
• Supervise bank reconciliations and manage organizational bank accounts.
• Approve invoices and monitor cash flow and spending across grants, programs, and the organization.
• Conduct ongoing internal financial reporting and analysis to inform strategic decisions.

Compliance, Audit & Internal Controls

• Ensure compliance with internal policies, GAAP standards, and applicable financial, legal, and tax regulations by staying up to date on relevant accounting and regulatory changes.
• Lead preparation and support for external audits (including Single Audit) and annual tax filings (e.g., IRS Form 990).
• Develop and maintain internal controls, accounting policies, and financial procedures to strengthen operations and mitigate risk.
• Serve on the organization’s 401(k) committee, helping to ensure fiduciary responsibilities are met.

Budgeting & Financial Analysis

• Coordinate the organization’s annual budgeting and planning process, including development of tools and timelines.
• Collaborate with the CFAO and all teams to prepare budgets and financial projections.
• Provide insightful financial analysis and dashboards for CFAO to support decision-making.
• Track and monitor restricted and unrestricted funding, including federal, state, and local government grants.
• Identify and recommend cost-saving opportunities and financial process improvements.

Systems & Technology

• Serve as administrator for accounting and budgeting software systems; manage system maintenance, upgrades, and enhancements.
• Act as the primary contact for all financial systems and technology-related questions or issues.

Team Leadership and Collaboration

• Supervise and support finance team members; clarify roles and provide training to enhance team and organizational performance.
• Provide financial onboarding for new employees and ongoing process training for all staff.
• Collaborate with department leaders to strengthen budgeting, spending, and fiscal accountability across the organization.

Other Duties

• Prepare annual named endowment fund reports.
• Coordinate and support the annual business insurance renewal process.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the organization’s mission and strategic goals.

Requirements

 Required Skills and Abilities 

• Demonstrated knowledge and/or experience with finance, grants management, and development operations.
• Expert level experience in Sage Intacct or similar accounting software.
• Experience with Paylocity or other payroll processing software.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook and Microsoft Teams.
• Strong attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy in financial work.
• Strong time management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to interpret financial data and communicate findings clearly.
• Proven ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to convey complex financial information effectively to non-finance staff.
• Demonstrated track record of trustworthiness, personal accountability, and high ethical standards including qualities of integrity, credibility, and unwavering commitment to Denver Scholarship’s mission.
•  A sense of humor, adaptability in a dynamic environment, and a commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative culture.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or relevant field is required.
• Minimum five years of progressive experience as Controller or Accounting Manager.
• Nonprofit experience preferred.

Benefits

• $120,000 to $135,000
• 401(k) plan with $ for $ match of up to 5%
• Group health, dental, and vision insurance, low cost premium plans offered. DSF pays for 90% of employee only and 65% of dependent plans.
• Life Insurance that provides 2 Times Your Annual Salary
• Free Annual Eco RTD Bus Pass
• Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance
• Short Term Disability Supplement (Based on Years of Service)
• Paid holidays (includes Winter Break and Summer 1/2 Fridays in June and July) and 2 Floating holidays each year
• Trusted Time Off (unlimited vacation policy following 90 days)
• Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave (Based on Years of Service)
• ID Theft Protection and Will Preparation Assistance
• Reduced cost for Legal Counseling
• Free Financial Counseling
• Four Professional Wellness Sessions and $300 annual wellness reimbursement
• Free Employee Assistance and Confidential Counseling Services

Job posting will remain open until 07/18/25 and may be extended if additional time is needed to gather qualified applicants.

Denver Scholarship Foundation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Learn about DSF’s commitment to Equity & Inclusion.