Controller

Job Title: ControllerReports To: Senior PastorFLSA: Full Time - ExemptAbout The RoleThe Controller serves as a trusted steward of the financial resources entrusted to New Life Covenant Church. This role ensures that all financial operations are carried out with integrity, excellence, and accountability, supporting both the day-to-day ministry and the long-term vision of the church. Through strong financial leadership, the Controller helps position the church to serve its congregation and impact the Grand Crossing community with wisdom and sustainability.Why This Role MattersAt New Life Covenant Church, we believe stewardship is an extension of our faith. Every resource represents an opportunity to serve, uplift, and transform lives. The Controller plays a critical role in ensuring that these resources are managed faithfully, transparently, and in alignment with our mission. This role helps build trust, strengthen operations, and empower leadership to make sound, informed decisions that further the work of ministry.What You’ll DoFinancial Strategy And LeadershipDevelop and implement the NLCS financial strategy, in alignment with the mission and long-term goals of the organizationProvide leadership in financial planning and strategy development, ensuring sustainability and financial growthAdvise the Executive Directors and executive board on financial matters, including opportunities, challenges, and areas of financial risk.Present financial reports and analysis to the executive team and board of directors, highlighting key financial metrics, ministry costs, funding sources and financial forecastsSupport the organization’s growth and scalability by exploring new funding avenues, cost-effective financial strategies, and operational improvementsFinancial Reporting And ComplianceOversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports, including accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reportsEnsure compliance with all relevant financial regulations, accounting standards, and reporting requirements for NLCSEEstablish and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard church assetsEnsure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and all applicable regulationsCoordinate and lead the annual audit process, serving as the primary liaison with external auditorsOversee tax filings and ensure compliance with non-profit tax laws, including IRS Form 990 and state/local tax regulationsCash Flow And Risk ManagementSupport the development and oversight of the annual budget, including variance analysisMonitor cash flow and help maintain the financial health of the organizationPartner with ministry leaders to provide clarity, guidance, and support around financial mattersIdentify financial risks and implement strategies to mitigate themOversee financial systems and controls to ensure the integrity of financial transactions and safeguard assetsTeam Leadership And DevelopmentLead, mentor, train and develop the finance and membership services team, ensuring professional growth and high performanceCreate a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in financial operationsWhat We’re Looking ForEducation: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field. CPA, MBA, or other advanced certifications are preferred.Experience: Minimum of 10 + yearsSkillsManaged operating budgets of $10M + plusManaged organizations with 50 + plus employeesNon-profit And For-profit ExperienceExperience with a minimum of 3 direct reportsFinancial management experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, preferably within a non-profit or similar mission-driven organizationExpertise in budgeting, financial analysis, and cash flow managementExperience managing financial systems, ERP software, and accounting platforms.Proven record of accomplishment in managing audits, taxes, and compliance for non-profitsStrong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and guide an accounting/finance teamExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.What You’ll BringA servant-hearted leader who values integrity, accountability, and excellenceA strong financial professional who is both detail-oriented and forward-thinkingSomeone who can bring clarity to complex financial information for diverse audiencesA proactive builder of systems, processes, and strong internal controlsA collaborative team member who thrives in a mission-driven, faith-based environmentExecutive presence: confident, professional, and able to communicate effectively with senior leadershipComfortability working in and supporting the mission of a faith-based organizationA high level of integrity, discretion, and professionalismCPA or advanced certification preferredExperience with CapEx or constructionWhere You’ll WorkThis role is based in the Grand Crossing community of Chicago and operates fully on-site to support the daily financial functions of the church. Occasional evenings or weekends may be required to support key reporting cycles or ministry activities.