Controller

Middle Seat is a recognized digital media and fundraising leader, serving many of the nation’s most prominent progressive candidates and causes. We’re a full-service firm with email, advertising, creative, social, texting, web development, and operations teams. We’re 40+ writers, designers, coders, and strategists, all passionate about creating real and lasting change. In just seven years, we’ve raised hundreds of millions of dollars with grassroots donors and helped elect or re-elect some of the nation’s most powerful voices for change.

We are seeking a seasoned Controller to join our leadership team, overseeing daily accounting operations—including payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and the preparation of internal and external financial statements. This role also involves steering the organization's long-term financial planning and strategic initiatives.

The ideal candidate will blend exceptional analytical abilities with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles to produce accurate financial reports. A deep grasp of our business model is essential for forecasting revenues and expenses and formulating robust risk mitigation strategies.

This role is not part of the bargaining unit. 

Responsibilities

Financial Planning and Strategy:

• Develop and monitor financial performance metrics to track and improve the organization’s financial health.
• Prepare Quarterly and Annual Financial Projections based on historical performance, market conditions, and business forecasts.
• Lead the annual budget process in collaboration with the partners and department heads. Regularly meet with department heads to review budgets and provide financial insights.
• Develop pro forma financial plans for potential investments, or business strategies.
• Evaluate and recommend long-term financial strategy to help the company achieve its business objectives, including strategic investments, cost savings, and revenue growth.

Financial Reporting and Oversight:

• Oversees all accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and client paid media.
• Oversee the preparation and distribution of monthly financial statements, ensuring they align with organizational goals and provide accurate insights into company performance.
• Ensure the company’s compliance with financial regulations and recommend and implement internal accounting policies.
• Provide guidance on accounting systems, processes, and controls. Continuously improve processes for financial reporting.
• Supervise the preparation and filing of tax reporting, working with external tax advisors to ensure timely and accurate submission of documents.

Risk Management and Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate financial risks that could affect the company’s profitability and long-term sustainability.
• Manage cash flow and provide strategic recommendations for maintaining optimal cash reserves.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and industry standards, including any tax or labor law changes affecting financial reporting.

Treasury and Cash Management:

• Oversee the company’s treasury function, including cash management, investments, and the management of any corporate debt.
• Develop and implement appropriate controls and safeguards over cash to prevent mismanagement.
• Monitor and ensure timely payments on debt service and manage any debt covenants (if applicable).

Collaboration and Leadership:

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the leadership team, providing actionable financial insights to inform key business decisions.
• Mentor, supervise, and develop staff to ensure effective execution of all financial tasks.
• Work closely with the People and Culture Director on financial matters related to employee benefits, including but not limited to health insurance, 401k, and wellness programs.
• Lead the development and implementation of financial policies to ensure operational efficiency and financial integrity.

Continuous Improvement:

• Assess the company’s current accounting operations and offer recommendations for improving financial processes, reducing costs, and increasing revenue.
• Stay updated with emerging financial regulations, accounting technologies, and industry trends to keep the organization at the forefront of financial best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or relevant financial degree

• 6+ years of accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role
• Working knowledge of tax laws and generally accepted accounting principles
• Outstanding analytical, organizational, and leadership skills in finance
• Proven ability to convey complex financial information in a clear and concise manner to non-financial stakeholders, both verbally and in writing
• Experience with Quickbooks, particularly Quickbooks Online
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly with Excel
• Proficiency in Google’s G Suite, particularly with Google Sheets
• Ability to train and manage staff
• Ability to assess and establish priorities and work independently
• Current CPA or CMA credential (preferred)

Benefits

• Competitive Salary: $100,000 - $120,000, based on experience and qualifications.

• Profit sharing plan: share in the growth and success of Middle Seat
• 6% employer match on your 401k retirement account
• 100% premium coverage for health, dental, and vision on a zero-deductible plan
• $300 monthly mental health reimbursement
• 20 paid vacation days off, plus your birthday and work anniversary off
• Unlimited sick leave
• 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents
• Commuter benefits for public transportation
• Coworking space (WeWork, etc.) stipend for employees outside of the D.C. metro area
• $50 mobile phone subsidy monthly
• $100 monthly student loan reimbursement
• $1,000 annual professional development reimbursement

We are committed to building a diverse and passionate team. We encourage creative-minded individuals with a strong technical aptitude to apply for this position. Women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals are encouraged to apply.