Assistant Controller
POSITION OBJECTIVE: The Phillips Collection is seeking an Assistant Controller to join its Finance team. This newly created role offers an exciting opportunity to shape and strengthen the museum’s financial operations.
Date Posted
January 23, 2026
Type
Full Time
Location
Washington, DC
Assistant Controller
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Core Accounting Functions and Operations · Oversee daily accounting operations, including journal entries, reconciliations, and accurate record keeping. · Manage processing and recordation of accounts payable and receivable to ensure accuracy and integrity. · Supervise bi-weekly payroll activities to ensure timely, accurate, and compliant recordation of all transactions. Compliance and Reporting · Lead and coordinate timely monthly and year-end financial close processes; prepare internal financial reports as needed. · Support annual audit and IRS 990 filings; ensure the organization’s financial practices comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and nonprofit accounting principles (e.g., GAAP). · Develop new, and maintain existing, accounting policies and procedures. · Maintain and enhance financial accounting systems; identify and lead opportunities for automation and process improvement.
Strategic and Collaborative Responsibilities
- Spearhead and actively contribute to budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning to support organizational goals.
· Direct ongoing analysis and evaluation of operational budgets, monitor budget variances, and project variances into a monthly forecast. · Design and deliver custom reports and analyses for leadership as needed. · Collaborate extensively with other departments to ensure effective fiscal procedures and accurate reporting. · Contribute to the team’s preparation of materials for the Finance and Investment Committees of the Board of Trustees. · Contribute to strategic planning by providing financial insights and recommendations. · Serve as a key resource in a collaborative finance team. · Perform other duties as assigned. POSITION REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS: · Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field; CPA certification preferred · 5 -7 years of senior-level accounting experience, preferably in a nonprofit environment. · Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit financial reporting standards. · Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience with financial accounting systems. · Demonstrated ability to design reports and conduct complex financial analyses. · Strategic thinker with planning experience and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset. · Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy across all financial processes. · Adaptable and responsive to changing priorities and workflow demands. · Excellent written and verbal communication skills. · Creative problem-solver with ability to identify and implement process improvements.
About The Phillips Collection The Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art, is committed to innovation, creativity, and community engagement. Renowned internationally for the world-class excellence of its permanent collection, exhibitions, education, and community programs, The Phillips Collection has, for more than a century, existed as a jewel in the cultural landscape of DC. The Phillips benefits society by warmly welcoming and bringing people together in its intimate galleries to learn, discover, and to be inspired by the joy, beauty, and power of art. We value collaboration and seek team members who share our passion for art and excellence. The Phillips Collection is an equal opportunity employer of qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. All employment decisions and personnel actions are conducted without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic disposition or carrier status, marital status, veteran status, personal appearance, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other category protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
Employment at The Phillips Collection is at-will. At-will means that you may terminate your employment at any time for any reason with or without notice and that The Phillips may terminate your employment at any time for any reason.
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