Summary

The Controller is responsible for the day-to-day financial management, reporting, and control functions of the organization. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Controller ensures accurate financial records, supports sound financial decision-making, and maintains compliance with accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations.

Description

                                                               Controller  

This is a Full-time permanent position, with an expected start date of July 1st, 2026.  

Location & Hours 

Work location: On-site at Distress Centre Calgary, 999 8 Street SW, Suite 500.   

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm primarily in office with some flexibility to work remote or staggered hours.  

What We Offer 

  • Generous Vacation Entitlement

  • RRSP matching and Health Spending Account 

  • Extended health and dental benefits 

  • Access to on-site gym at no cost 

  • Paid development days and a staff development fund 

  • A supportive, mission-driven workplace where you can grow, take on new challenges, and collaborate with colleagues that value integrity, hard work, and making a meaningful community impact 

Who We Are 

For over 50 years, Distress Centre has served Calgary and Southern Alberta by providing 24-hour crisis support, information, and resources at no cost. Distress Centre does not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night. 

We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where employees are valued, experience a sense of belonging, and are confident being their most authentic selves. We welcome and encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and members of equity-deserving groups. We value all the ways that our community is diverse – in identity, experience and perspective. 

What to Expect 

The Controller is responsible for the day-to-day financial management, reporting, and control functions of the organization. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Controller ensures accurate financial records, supports sound financial decision-making, and maintains compliance with accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. 

The Controller oversees the accounting function, supervises finance staff, and leads the annual audit process, while contributing to continuous improvement of financial systems, controls, and reporting. 

What You’ll Do 

 

Financial Reporting, Accounting and Grant Recording 

  • Prepare and deliver accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.  

  • Maintain the general ledger, ensuring integrity of financial data and adherence to accounting  standards for not-for-profits.  

  • Monitor and analyze financial performance, including budget-to-actual results, and provide  insights to leadership.  

  • Ensure proper recording and reporting of grants, donations, and program funding.  

Audit & Compliance 

  • Lead and coordinate the annual audit process, acting as the primary liaison with external auditors.  

  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, funding agreements, and internal policies.  

  • Maintain and strengthen internal controls and financial policies and procedures.  

Budgeting & Forecasting Support 

  • Facilitates and provides the framework for the annual budgeting process and periodic forecasts.  

  • Prepare financial analysis and reports to support planning and decision-making.  

Cash Flow & Financial Operations 

  • Monitor cash flow and support short- and long-term financial planning.  

  • Oversee accounts payable, payroll, and general accounting operations.  

  • Review and approve reconciliations and financial transactions in accordance with delegated  authority.  

Systems & Process Improvement 

  • Maintain and improve financial systems, reporting tools, and workflows.  

  • Recommend enhancements to strengthen efficiency, accuracy, and internal controls. 

Team Leadership 

  • Supervise and support finance staff, including Accountant and Accounts Payable.  

  • Ensure efficient, accurate, and timely processing of all financial transactions.  

 

Other related duties as assigned. 

What You Bring 

Qualifications & Experience 

Education 

  • Bachelor's degree in finance, Accounting, or a related field. 

  • Professional accounting designation (CPA) preferred. 

Experience 

  • 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, including full-cycle accounting and financial reporting. 

  • Minimum of 2–3 years in a supervisory or senior-level accounting role. 

  • Demonstrated experience in not-for-profit and fund accounting, including: 

  • Managing grants and restricted funding 

  • Donor reporting and compliance requirements 

  • Proven experience leading or supporting annual audits and working effectively with external auditors. 

  • Strong understanding of internal controls, regulatory compliance, and financial governance. 

  • Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and supervise staff effectively. 

Relationship & Interpersonal Skills 

  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills are essential to the success of this role. 

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. 

Core Competencies 

  • Financial Reporting & Analytical Expertise 

  • Audit, Compliance & Internal Controls 

  • Leadership & Operational Effectiveness 

How to Apply 

Please submit your resume and cover letter through ADP.  

Distress Centre is an inclusive workplace. If you are invited for an interview and require accommodation, please let us know. If you require accommodation during the application process, please call our main office and ask to speak to Human Resources.                 

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.