Controller

Job Posting: Controller
Location: Paola, Kansas
Position Type: Full-Time, Hybrid (flexible in-office & remote work options)
Starting Salary Range: $85,000-$95,000 per year
At Lakemary Center, Inc. (LMC), we are dedicated to making a meaningful impact on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and we’re seeking an experienced Controller to join our welcoming, supportive, and collaborative team. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your financial expertise in a mission-driven nonprofit environment while working closely with a passionate team that values collaboration, innovation, and community.
WHY JOIN LAKEMARY?
At LMC, we believe in the power of financial expertise to change lives. As a valued member of our team, you’ll be part of an organization that puts people first, creating opportunities for growth and success — both professionally and personally. If you’re passionate about using your skills for good and are looking for a place where you can make a difference, we encourage you to apply!

• Make a Meaningful Impact: In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to directly contribute to the success of a nonprofit organization that changes lives every day. Your expertise in nonprofit accounting will help us ensure financial integrity, track restricted assets, manage grants, and make strategic financial decisions that support our mission.

• Hybrid Work Flexibility: We understand the importance of work-life balance. This role offers a hybrid work environment, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of remote work while maintaining a connection with your team in the office. It’s a perfect opportunity for professionals in the Kansas City metro area looking for a manageable commute while still being part of an organization that makes a meaningful impact.

• Join a Collaborative Team: We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment where team members collaborate, share knowledge, and work together to solve challenges. You won’t be just another number — you’ll be a valued member of a team that supports and encourages you to grow.
• Support for Federal Employees: In light of recent federal employee layoffs, we invite individuals with strong financial expertise to consider transitioning to a dynamic nonprofit environment where you can apply your skills in a meaningful way. We believe your experience in government finance could be an excellent fit for our nonprofit sector, and we offer a stable, fulfilling, and supportive work environment that can make a lasting impact.

 
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Job Summary
The Controller is responsible for the direction and leadership of operational, financial, and programmatic activities for Finance. The Controller will provide overall administration, direction, coordination, and evaluation of finance functions and activities of LMC and is specifically responsible for the following areas:

• General Accounting (Individual entities and Consolidated Financials)
• Financial reporting (Individual entities and Consolidated Financials)
• Payroll
• Accounts Payable
• Financial Information Systems

The Controller serves as the operational leader for Finance, reports to the Chief Financial Officer, and works closely with LMC employees and leaders.
Major Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day accounting operations for a nonprofit organization, including grant reporting, restricted net assets, and quasi-endowment management.
• Maintain records related to operations and services that are complete, accurate, available, and in compliance with all legal, regulatory, and policy requirements.
• Prepare detailed financial reports, manage A/P, A/R, and payroll functions, and ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards.
• Incorporate LMC’s mission, vision, and values in goals and programs within Finance.
• Actively seek opportunities to improve financial outcomes, engaging staff in the process.
• Collaborate with the team to improve processes, provide financial insights, and ensure the financial health of the organization.
• Direct and guide managers to effectively allocate resources.
• Hold self and others accountable to policy, standards, and commitments.
• Provide timely follow-through on questions and concerns.
• Work with the leadership team to develop budgets and forecasts and assist in strategic financial decision-making.
• Articulate to staff the budget and the context within the organizational financials.
• Organize and prioritize time and resources to manage efficiency. Appropriately delegate tasks.
• Remain current on new trends and best practices and incorporate into Finance practices and programs.
• Actively listen to staff ideas and concerns, assess other’s communication styles, and adapt to them.
• Effectively facilitate meetings at department and organizational level.
• Create bi-directional systems that effectively communicate information and data, utilizing multiple methods.
• Articulate and present data and ideas clearly and concisely.
• Communicate opinions and ideas in a non-threatening and nonjudgmental manner to staff, peers, and others.
• Demonstrate empathy and concern while ensuring Finance goals are met.
• Manage complex interdepartmental and interdisciplinary relationships to ensure collaboration and effective/efficient operations within Finance.
• Create an environment that encourages diverse opinions, recognizes differences, and incorporates into processes and services.
• Exhibit awareness of personal attitudes and beliefs, recognizing their effect in response to others.
• Create a culture and systems for recognizing and rewarding staff.
• Assess finance staff development needs, identify goals, and provide resources.
• Ensure integration of ethical standards and core values into everyday work activities.
• Lead and/or serve on a variety of appropriate internal and external committees to represent Finance.

WHO YOU ARE:

• You have a strong background in nonprofit accounting or a similar field, with experience managing restricted funds, grant reporting, and fund accounting.
• You bring a collaborative mindset and are eager to work alongside a team that values input from all members.
• You thrive in a mission-driven nonprofit setting and have a passion for using your financial expertise to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ lives.
• You enjoy working in a supportive environment where professional development is encouraged, and your contributions are valued.
• You value work-life balance and are excited about the hybrid role that offers flexibility to work both remotely and in the office.
• You excel in critical thinking and problem-solving skills to solve challenges and improve the financial systems that support organizational growth.
• You are proactive and highly organized with exceptional follow-through skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; Master’s Degree, CPA or nonprofit accounting certification preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in accounting, finance, or a related field, preferably in a nonprofit and/or healthcare organization.
• Familiarity with nonprofit accounting, fund accounting, grant management, and restricted net assets.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Ability to think critically and apply analytical skills to improve financial systems and operations.