Controller

About Blue Forest

Blue Forest is a conservation finance non-profit organization founded in 2015 with a mission to advance ecosystem restoration through scientific research, financial innovation, and collaborative partnerships. Their flagship financial product, the Forest Resilience Bond (FRB), mobilizes private capital to finance forest restoration projects aimed at reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires. Since its inception, Blue Forest has gained recognition for its innovative approach to environmental finance and has successfully managed investor capital to support conservation efforts. They have expanded their portfolio through Blue Forest Asset Management (BFAM), an investment management platform that connects investors with mission-aligned opportunities in various asset classes, including private equity and private credit investments. Blue Forest is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. Their team is composed of interdisciplinary professionals, including scientists, engineers, foresters, and finance experts, all dedicated to restoring Earth’s ecosystems and building climate resilience. The organization values continuous learning, collaboration, innovation, and a grounding in science.

About this Role

The Controller at Blue Forest will be responsible for overseeing accounting, financial reporting, and grants finance workstreams. This role demands technical expertise and leadership to complement the strategic finance-oriented CFO, scaling and refining systems, processes, policies, team capabilities, and third-party engagements to support the organization’s growth and complexity in business and grant funding relationships. The Controller will also be expected to contribute to building a reputation of diligence and top-notch execution within the accounting team. This role entails various duties, including managing accounting systems, ensuring compliance with GAAP accounting and financial reporting standards, oversight of payroll, and grants finance management. Additionally, the Controller will support the CFO in managing treasury, audit, and tax processes, alongside contributing to finance department strategy, roadmapping, and resource planning.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all elements of consolidated GAAP accounting and financial reporting for Blue Forest and its subsidiaries.
• Manage Blue Forest’s accounting system and related software tools.
• Oversee the work of the accounting team, ensuring compliance with month-close procedures.
• Maintain multi-entity general ledger, ensuring accurate tracking of funder allocations and program budgeting.
• Co-own time & attendance system with HR and administer time/wage-related policies.
• Review financial statements produced by third-party fund administrators.
• Produce and improve financial statements and internal/external reports.
• Run payroll and prepare Form 990 for reporting purposes.
• Lead finance workstreams related to government and philanthropic grant funding.
• Design and improve internal systems for disseminating financial information to grant managers.
• Create and document spending policies in alignment with federal regulations.
• Assist the CFO in managing banking and investment relationships.
• Develop policies for funds transfers, financial controls, and financial risk management.
• Manage third-party tax engagements and audits (including GAAP and federal single audits).
• Support CFO in corporate budgeting, planning, and forecasting processes.
• Collaborate with department heads to integrate resource plans with financial plans.
• Oversee HR administration elements including benefits, business registrations, and compliance.
• Act as an internal resource for accounting and finance questions.

Requirements

• CPA certification.
• 8+ years of experience in nonprofit finance and accounting.
• Strong preference for exposure to federal awards and agreements.
• Familiarity with 2 CFR 200 and experience with federal single audit processes.
• Successful track record in managing and motivating teams.
• Experience with federal financial awards, non-profit accounting, and investment fund accounting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to accuracy.
• Interest in environmental conservation and climate resilience.

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision coverage; subsidized coverage for dependents.
• Access to a 401k retirement plan with a 4% employer match.
• Starting 3 weeks paid vacation and 17 paid holidays; paid sick leave and volunteer time.
• 3 months of paid family leave.
• Employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance.
• Access to Dependent Care FSA.
• Public Lands Exploration stipend for visits to national forests and county parks.
• Monthly home office stipend or co-working space support.
• Travel and partial dependent care costs for business travel.
• Additional stipends for health & wellness, home internet, and cell service.
• Financial support for professional development.