[Remote] Director, Accounting (Controller Department)

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. The Urban Institute is a research-to-impact institution that equips changemakers with evidence and solutions to improve lives and strengthen communities. The Accounting Director will oversee accounting operations, financial reporting, billing and revenue accounting, audits, compliance, internal controls, and process improvement while leading and developing accounting staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle accounting operations, including the general ledger, monthly and year-end close, reconciliations, accruals, allocations, and supporting documentation, ensuring accurate and timely financial records
• Review significant and nonroutine transactions, estimates, and account analyses for GAAP compliance, appropriate documentation, and audit readiness
• Direct billing and revenue accounting for government contracts and grants, foundations, and other funders; overs invoice accuracy, timely billing, and resolution of billing issues
• Review revenue recognition analyses under ASC 606 and ASC 958, including ASU 2019-08, and lead and document the analysis of complex or judgmental accounting matters
• Oversee accounts receivable, cash application, aging, and collections, ensuring appropriate reconciliation among funding agreements, projects, and the general ledger
• Oversee accounts payable, payroll accounting, and information reporting, including Forms 1099, while maintaining effective internal controls and segregation of duties
• Serve as the first comprehensive reviewer of financial statements, disclosures, account analyses, and other financial reporting
• Lead accounting support for the annual financial statement audit, Single Audit, and funder or regulatory audits, including preparation and review of the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA)
• Support accounting and compliance for federal awards, including Uniform Guidance requirements, indirect cost recovery, and Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) matters
• Serve as the first reviewer of Form 990 workpapers, including reconciliation to the general ledger and consistency of financial disclosures
• Lead, coach, and develop accounting staff; establish clear ownership and accountability and partner with Finance, Grants & Contracts, Human Resources, Technology & Data Science, and program teams to strengthen processes and data quality
• Identify and implement opportunities to improve accounting, billing, ERP, payroll, and reporting processes, including responsible use of Microsoft Copilot and other approved automation tools to reduce manual work and improve efficiency

Skills

• Possess a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field
• Have at least 12 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years of accounting leadership experience, including managing and developing accounting professionals
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and significant experience with financial close, general ledger accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls
• Bring significant experience supporting annual financial statement audits and working effectively with external auditors
• Experience with Single Audits is required
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of revenue recognition under ASC 606 and ASC 958 and experience evaluating and documenting complex or judgmental accounting matters
• Have significant nonprofit accounting experience and strong knowledge of federal award requirements, including Uniform Guidance, SEFA, indirect cost recovery, and experience working with NICRAs
• Demonstrate strong analytical skills, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to identify issues, recommend practical solutions, and clearly communicate accounting conclusions
• Demonstrate strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop staff and collaborate effectively across Finance, Grants & Contracts, Human Resources, Technology & Data Science, program teams, and senior management
• Exhibit proficiency with ERP/accounting systems and Microsoft Excel, along with the ability to use Microsoft Copilot and other approved technology and automation tools to improve accounting processes, analysis, and efficiency
• Organize and prioritize multiple responsibilities in a deadline-driven environment while maintaining accuracy, accountability, and appropriate documentation
• CPA or other relevant professional certification

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including nine federal holidays and other leave benefits
• Medical insurance, including prescription coverage
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Transit benefits
• 403(b) retirement plan participation immediately after hire
• A generous employer contribution after six months of service and 500 hours, with immediate vesting
• Access to a health advocate
• Personal finance consulting
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Credit union
• Educational assistance for undergraduate and graduate degree programs
• The opportunity to be fully remote

Company Overview

Company H1B Sponsorship