Are you ready to take on a pivotal role in the fight against cancer while driving financial excellence? Join American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) as our Controller and become a key player in a dynamic network dedicated to cancer prevention. Imagine being at the heart of financial decision-making, working with passionate professionals, and making a global impact from our office in Arlington, VA. This is not just a job—it's a chance to be part of something truly extraordinary.

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is a US-based cancer prevention charity focused on understanding how diet, weight, and physical activity impact cancer risk and survivorship. AICR shares this evidence with the public, health professionals, and policymakers. As a member of World Cancer Research Fund International (WCRF International), AICR joins a global network of cancer prevention charities based in America, Europe, and Asia. WCRF International unifies these charities, giving them a global voice in cancer prevention.

Job Summary

The AICR Controller is responsible for the management and oversight of the finances of AICR. The role is responsible for prompt reporting of the financial conditions of AICR and when appropriate, reports on corporate banking, investment, and external audit relationships to the AICR Board of Directors.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

1. Responsible for the financial operations of AICR, including execution of financial processes, annual operating budget, annual audits, State Registrations and 990 tax preparation.

1. Responsible for the prompt and accurate reporting of the financial condition of AICR by ensuring the monthly financial statements, cash management reports and other analyses prepared by the IFS Team are correct.

1. Serves on the EMT, providing financial reporting and guidance related to the financial condition of AICR.

1. When required, reports to the AICR Board of Directors, to the Audit and Investment Committees, as well as at full board meetings.

1. Ensures all financial functions, including banking, investments, and investment strategies, and preparation of monthly financial reports in accordance with General Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

1. Serves as a contact with the organizations’ independent public accountants and has responsibility to ensure the smooth and accurate process of the AICR independent annual audit.

1. Serves as liaison and contact for AICR banking, investment, and vendor relationships in conjunction with the Senior Director of Development.

1. Works with the Director of Network Operations and other senior IFS staff to ensure that the IFS staff that work on the AICR finances are appropriately trained and resourced.

1. Compiles information, reviews corporate tax and informational returns and other such items of a financial nature that must be filed with Federal, State, national and local governments in conjunction with the Senior Director of Board and Governance Services for AICR.

1. Responsible to WCRF International for managing the AICR budget process along with the Senior Director of Fundraising. Submits the budget to WCRF International according to the timeline, for the consolidation of the network budgets.

1. Provides financial analyses and forecasts for senior staff on cash flow, revenue, competitive environment, and other reports.

1. Provides financial input for strategic planning.

1. Keeps abreast of proposed accounting, payroll and tax regulations that may affect financial reporting of AICR.

1. Demonstrate interest in finding new ways to keep AICR as financially sound and innovative as possible by keeping up to date with the sector

1. Supports the EMT in providing oversight in the development and monitoring of AICR’s investment policies and benefits programs.

1. Performs other tasks and duties as assigned by WCRF International Director, Network Operations or AICR senior management.

Person Specification

• Fully Qualified Accountant/CPA with at least 8 years' experience in a mid to senior role, preferably gained in a nonprofit environment
• Proven experience at a senior level in a finance role with responsibility across the whole finance function, including audits
• Demonstrated ability to work with financial management, budgeting, administrative systems, annual audits, Form 990 processes, and other nonprofit financial processes and requirements
• Strong understanding of accounting and office operations and procedures, including human resources, payroll, bookkeeping, contract management, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and laws related to nonprofit corporations.
• Experience directly supervising a small team.
• Experience of effectively handling multiple priorities and projects
• Strong in Excel, specifically in Pivot Tables, VLookup
• Analytical skills and ability to exercise good judgement
• Demonstrated aptitude for strategic thinking, planning and analysis
• Excellent financial planning, annual budgeting and forecasting skills
• Excellent verbal and writing communication skills both internal to the organization and with external partners
• Innovative and energetic approach to financial administration as well as being an engaged part of senior management in the office and across the Network
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, keep organized in a fast-paced environment, manage simultaneous tasks, and adjust strategy to changing demands.
• Demonstrated ability to work well with a diverse Board of Directors
• Excellent organizational skills
• Keen eye for detail
• Ability to meet deadlines and to work independently and as part of a team
• Proven ability to build and nurture a diverse, respectful, and positive working environment

American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.