Deputy Controller

Who We Are

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families by improving farm viability and farmland access. Long a pioneering leader, AFT is now riding a new wave of growth, driven by agriculture’s most pressing needs and opportunities. 

Job Purpose
American Farmland Trust (AFT) is seeking a strategic, detail-oriented Deputy Controller to support and lead the day-to-day operations of our Finance Department. Reporting directly to the Controller, this role plays a key part in ensuring the accuracy, efficiency, and integrity of our financial systems and processes.

Position Summary
As a vital member of AFT’s Finance team, the Deputy Controller is responsible for managing financial systems and accounting operations while supervising the finance staff. The ideal candidate will bring a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on leadership, with the ability to streamline workflows, manage multiple deadlines, and support our organizational mission with sound financial guidance.

Key Responsibilities

• Staff Management: Supervise, coach, and mentor a team of finance professionals. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development.
• Timeline Oversight: Develop, manage, and monitor financial timelines to ensure timely completion of key deliverables, including monthly close, budget cycles, and reporting.
• Workflow Optimization: Lead the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department. Continuously improve financial workflows and processes for greater efficiency and accuracy.
• Financial Reporting: Assist in preparing accurate and timely financial statements, budgets, forecasts, and other internal and external financial reports.
• Internal Controls: Establish and maintain strong internal controls to protect organizational assets and ensure the accuracy of financial data. Create and standardize operating procedures for improved efficiency.
• Audit Management: Oversee the annual external audit process by coordinating internal efforts and ensuring timely delivery of all required documentation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with departments across AFT to provide financial insights, support strategic decision-making, and align financial goals with organizational priorities.
• Special Projects: Lead or contribute to special projects or initiatives as assigned by the Controller or Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or equivalent certification preferred.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including management-level responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit financial management preferred.
• Excellent leadership, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience with financial systems and software, with a preference for [insert specific tools if known, e.g., Sage Intacct, QuickBooks, Excel].

Working Conditions/Travel

• While the majority of work will occur during normal business hours, occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet critical deadlines.
• This is a hybrid role based out of our Washington, D.C. headquarters. The selected candidate is expected to work in the office a couple of days per week, with flexibility to work remotely on other days.
• Travel is expected to be minimal, estimated at less than 5% annually.

Direct Reports

This role has supervisory responsibility for the Accounting and Finance staff.

Compensation

The salary range is from $120,000 to $130,000 for full-time employees, based upon experience.

American Farmland Trust offers a full benefits package for full time employees:

• Insurance coverage begins the 1st of the month following the date of hire. 
• Medical & Prescription Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Company Paid Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Healthcare & Dependent Care
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Sick Leave: Regular full-time employees accrue 3.5 hours per pay period (13 “sick days” per year).
• Vacation Leave: Accrue 15 days during the first year increasing by one day per year to 20 days per year maximum.
• Holidays: AFT observes eleven fixed holidays during the year (all offices closed) plus a choice of up to three (depending on hiring month) floating holidays.
   

Why you should apply:

• Be a part of a purpose-driven, committed, knowledgeable, high-performing, experienced and fun team
• A diverse and inclusive work environment
• A cause and mission you can be proud of
• Competitive compensation & benefits
• Remote work opportunities
• Flexible scheduling

Timeline

To be considered, applicants must submit a resume, a cover letter, and complete all screener questions. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and accepted until the position is filled.

We believe diversity drives innovation. We are inclusive. We embrace differences. We recognize and respect the fundamental value and dignity of all our employees. We celebrate the unique traditions, heritages, and experiences our employees bring to the workplace. We are committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive culture that promotes and values diversity, and where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work every day. Please see AFT’s statement on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice.