Director of Accounting/Controller

About Middle East Institute

Founded in 1946, The Middle East Institute (MEI) is Washington’s leading policy institute dedicated to the study of the Middle East. We are a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, as well as a hub for engaging with the region’s arts and culture. MEI’s Arts and Culture Center runs a gallery dedicated to Middle Eastern art, organizes events and panels at the intersection of art and policy and runs cultural diplomacy programs in the Middle East.

Position Overview: Please submit applications directly via: https://shorturl.at/21Rzn

The Director of Accounting/Controller plays a pivotal role in managing the Middle East Institute’s strategic financial initiatives and operations. This includes overseeing A/P, A/R, audit preparation, general ledger maintenance, and month-end close processes. The manager ensures compliance with financial standards and internal controls, maintains data integrity within MEI’s accounting and financial systems, and serves as a key contact for external auditors and regulatory bodies.

Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as the manager will work closely with other departments to support strategic priorities and identify opportunities to streamline processes and increase efficiency.

The ideal candidate for this position will be a proactive and results-driven professional with a proven track record in managing finance and accounting operations, upholding the highest standard of financial integrity, and collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Experience in non-profit accounting and demonstrated ability to contribute to process improvements in a dynamic environment are required

Essential Responsibilities:

The responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Support the Vice President of Finance and Administration in advancing strategic priorities, enhancing financial policies, procedures, and systems, and other duties as required.
• Oversee day-to-day financial activities, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and reconciliation of all financial transactions to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Assist in the development and monitoring of budgets, forecasts, and financial plans; guide expense tracking. Provide insights to inform strategic planning and decision-making.
• Implement and maintain effective internal controls and financial policies, and ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP principles, and other financial standards; maintain a strong accounting and operational control environment to support strategic priorities.
• Ensure deadlines for monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes are consistently met.
• Oversee payroll and benefits process, including ensuring timely payments of obligations, withholding, and distributions.
• Analyze and optimize costs related to employee compensation, benefits, and other HR and operations initiatives.
• Partner with and support the financial needs of other departments, including tracking and monitoring financial performance, ensuring data integrity, providing financial guidance, and contributing to projects.
• Manage and organize internal and external audits including preliminary work, annual audit & 990 engagement, 403B, and worker’s compensation audit.
• Ensure that accounting and financial processes comply with regulations that impact HR, such as tax laws and labor regulations.
• Maintain documentation and records in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with special projects and process improvements as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• CPA, CMA, or advanced certification preferred
• At least 6-8 years of experience in accounting and financial management, demonstrating progressive responsibility and supervisory roles
• Strong understanding of GAAP, accrual accounting, and managing accounting functions in nonprofit organizations.
• Proficiency in accounting software and systems (e.g., QuickBooks, Rippling, Bill.com or similar).
• High level of integrity and professionalism, proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with various stakeholders.