Job Description: Controller (International Labor Union)
Position Title: Controller
Organization: Confidential (International Labor Union)
Location: Washington, DC (On-site)
Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: General President / General Secretary-Treasurer
Position Overview
We are seeking a strong, highly experienced, and strategic Controller to oversee the financial operations, compliance, and accounting functions of our International Labor Union. Based in Washington, DC, the Controller will lead a dedicated accounting team, ensuring the highest standards of financial integrity, internal controls, and regulatory compliance unique to labor organizations.
The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in non-profit accounting (preferably labor union accounting), non-profit financial management, and complex multi-entity structures. As a vital leader within our financial team, you will modernize accounting processes, safeguard organizational assets, and provide clear, actionable financial reporting to executive leadership to support our mission of empowering working people.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, per capita tax tracking, and fixed assets for the International Union and several affiliated entities.
- Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
- Present comprehensive financial analysis, variance reports, and cash flow projections for the General President and General Executive Board.
- Manage the annual budgeting process in coordination with department heads, tracking expenditures against strategic priorities.
Regulatory Compliance & Reporting (Labor Specific)
- Direct the preparation and timely filing of the Department of Labor (DOL) Form LM-2, ensuring strict compliance with the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA).
- Ensure full compliance with IRS regulations, including the preparation and filing of Form 990 and related tax exemptions.
- Manage compliance related to Political Action Committee (PAC) funds and Federal Election Commission (FEC) financial disclosures.
- Understand ERISA principles as they relate to certain of the affiliated entities.
- Serve as the primary liaison for the annual external audit, as well as potential audits by the DOL, IRS, or other regulatory bodies.
Internal Controls & Process Optimization
- Establish, monitor, and enforce robust internal financial controls to safeguard Union assets across headquarters and regional offices.
- Evaluate, modernize, and streamline accounting systems and workflows, leveraging financial technology to improve departmental efficiency.
- Develop and maintain documented accounting policies and procedures manuals.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Manage, mentor, and develop a professional accounting staff, fostering a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate effectively with Union leadership, regional offices, affiliates, and local chapters regarding per capita tax tracking and financial compliance.
Qualifications & Experience
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or Business Administration required. CPA (Certified Public Accountant) required.
- Experience: Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3–5 years in a Controller or equivalent leadership role within a large, complex non-profit organization.
- Labor Union Expertise: Extensive, hands-on experience with LM-2 preparation and a deep understanding of LMRDA regulations is strongly preferred. Familiarity with the operations of Taft-Hartley training funds preferred.
- Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in enterprise-level accounting software (e.g., Sage Intacct preferred, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics) and expert-level Excel skills. Experience implementing or upgrading financial systems is a plus.
- Core Competencies: Exceptionally strong analytical skills, impeccable ethical standards, outstanding communication abilities, and a collaborative leadership style.
Benefits
- Highly competitive salary (range is $250k + commensurate with experience).
- Comprehensive union-sponsored health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance.
- Generous defined-benefit pension plans and profit-sharing DC Plan.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and observed holidays.