Global Controller

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is a leading global humanitarian and development agency that has been operational since 194

• The organization reaches over 130 million people across more than 110 countries, providing assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. CRS focuses on various areas including emergency response, health and social services, agriculture, education, water and environment, small enterprise, and justice and peacebuilding. The agency is committed to creating lasting transformation in individual lives and entire societies through strong partnerships with local communities, governments, and organizations worldwide. With a mission centered on humanitarian aid and development, CRS has built a reputation as a trusted partner in delivering impactful programs and operations.

Job Overview:
The Global Controller is a pivotal role within Catholic Relief Services, responsible for leading and analyzing the financial status of the organization. This position works closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to develop strategic and long-term financial goals while directing the preparation of all financial reports, statements, audits, and controls. The Global Controller ensures the accuracy and completeness of the organization’s financial reporting, both internally and externally, including donor reporting. This role is crucial in establishing and enforcing internal controls to ensure compliance with accounting and financial standards as well as applicable regulations. The Global Controller is expected to provide leadership in financial management and reporting, ensuring that the organization operates within the framework of established financial guidelines and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Global Controller will oversee all accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems, ensuring compliance with appropriate GAAP standards and regulatory requirements. Responsibilities include maintaining and analyzing the general ledger accounting records, conducting research to resolve technical accounting issues, and overseeing month-end close and general ledger activity. The Global Controller will ensure that all transactions are recorded in accordance with GAAP and will analyze financial statements to prepare reports that accurately reflect the organization’s financial activities. This position will also develop and enforce internal controls to maximize the protection of the organization’s assets, policies, procedures, and workflow. Additionally, the Global Controller will direct all HQ audit activities, including the 2 CFR 200 US government audit, oversee the preparation of Form 990 and other required tax filings, and create and implement processes for the financial management system. The role includes leading grants management processes related to financial activities and reporting in compliance with donor regulations, overseeing HQ financial operational functions such as accounts payable, payroll, and accounts receivable, and developing consistent accounting policies and procedures across all country programs. Effective supervision of accounting staff is also a key responsibility, ensuring adherence to standard accounting principles and CRS processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in accounting, economics, or finance, along with solid knowledge of not-for-profit accounting and U.S. Government funding regulations for non-profit organizations. A minimum of 10 years of financial and/or program management experience within an international operations environment is required, with at least 7 years in a supervisory position. Candidates should have past experience managing large geographically distributed programs, including multiple projects and/or service delivery efforts, and demonstrated experience in building and leading teams. Experience in business change projects and/or business process improvement is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in accounting, economics, or finance. Preferred qualifications include a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or an MBA (Master of Business Administration), which would enhance the candidate's profile for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in financial and/or program management within an international operations context. Candidates should have at least 7 years of experience in a supervisory role, demonstrating their ability to lead teams and manage complex financial operations effectively. Experience in managing large, geographically distributed programs is crucial, as is a background in business change projects and process improvement initiatives.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered advantageous, particularly in regions where CRS operates, to facilitate better communication and understanding with local communities and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. The organization fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on improving the lives of the poor globally. All interested applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. at the time of application. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants, community members, staff, and volunteers from all forms of exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate is expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct. The organization prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS has offices.