Optica is recruiting for a Controller. The Controller is responsible for the oversight of accounting operations and financial reporting for Optica and the Optica Foundation in accordance with GAAP standards, applicable rules, and regulations. The individual manages staff members with responsibility for general ledger, accounts payable, fixed assets, and taxes.  The Controller ensures that Optica has the proper processes, procedures and policies in place to support effective program implementation. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Finance and Accounting
   1. Ensure accounts, ledgers and reports comply with GAAP and regulatory requirements.
   2. Prepare, review and approve financial statements and month-end entries and accounting report package for accuracy and timely distribution to management. Monitor financial performance and keep CFO informed of changes to the plan.
   3. Maintain internal control and safeguards for receipts, payments, fixed assets, and recording transactions.
   4. Serve as primary point of contact with outside auditors to coordinate audit activity.
   5. Assist in preparing and reviewing Finance Council, Investment Committee, and Audit Council's ebooks.
   6. Recommend and implement improvements for accounting processes to increase efficiency and accuracy.
   7. Provide guidance to stakeholders on finance and accounting current best practices to support effective program implementation.

2. Annual Budget and Analysis:

1. 1. Support the annual budget process and participate in review meetings.
   2. Provide ad hoc and special financial analysis.

3. Cash Management
   1. Monitor operating account balances and recommend necessary cash transfers among bank accounts and/or investment accounts.
   2. Review and approve monthly investment reports prepared by staff from third parties.   

4. Internal Controls:

1. 1. Develop, communicate, and update Finance and Accounting policies and procedures.
   2. Review and update Finance SOPs to clarify roles and responsibilities. Coordinate with the CFO to ensure a balanced separation of duties.
   3. Enforce established internal controls and recommend changes as necessary.  

5. Team Leadership
   1. Supports CFO to the team management in line with Optica’s vision and culture
   2. Lead team members to develop skills and increase their knowledge base; clarify roles and responsibilities while building a supportive team environment.    
   3. Strengthen internal communications with staff; promote process efficiency and accuracy across functions.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

1. Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance required; CPA required, and MBA preferred.
2. At least five to seven years of supervisory experience and ten to fifteen years of progressive experience in finance and accounting with management experience.
3. In-depth knowledge of accounting, financial reporting and generally accepted accounting principles and practices and risk management.
4. Solid experience in coordinating audit activities and managing reporting, accounts payable, general ledger, including restricted net assets, fixed assets, accounting for investments, and separate entity accounting.
5. Proven experience in the implementation of operational best practices.
6. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, ability to interact with all levels of staff and to explain financial and accounting terms to non-accountants, and experience in effectively communicating data, including presentations to senior management and the Board.
7. Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills. Experience with ERP system, Dynamics SL and Management Reporter preferred. Experience with Solver BI360 and Tableau is a plus. 
8. Experience in grants management and reporting of government, corporate and foundation grants to funders and required external reporting.
9. Outstanding analytic and problem-solving skills for insightful data interpretation versus simple reporting.

Located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, Optica offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits. Send resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to resumes@optica.org.

About Optica

Optica (formerly OSA) is dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving, and dissemination of knowledge in optics and photonics worldwide. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students, and others interested in the science of light. Optica’s renowned publications, meetings, online resources, and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate scientific, technical, and educational achievement.

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