from Controller to Consultant to Staff Accountant in 10 days

I may never trust a recruiter ever again.

Against my better judgment, I applied for a position listed by a so-called recruitment service. Here’s how the job was listed, and why I bit…

Non-Profit Controller to 65K+ [and yes, that is low for our area]
Are you an experienced Controller/CFO interested in finding a unique and exciting opportunity within the non-profit sector?  Our client, a local Xxxxxxxxxxxx company, has an immediate need for a Controller/CFO with non-profit experience. In this position you will have the opportunity to utilize your Controllership experience as you collaborate with multiple clients on a regular basis to assist them in the growth and development of their organizations. You will manage a team of professionals as you provide a high level of skill in accounting and financial management at an affordable cost. After a brief introductory period, you will have the ability to manage your own schedule and work either remotely or from an office setting.

Candidates should possess a Bachelors or Masters in Accounting (with CPA preferred), experience with Non-profit accounting software (QuickBooks, Peachtree, Sage/MIP Nonprofit, MAS 90, etc.). Flexibility and the ability to multitask are a plus as you will be performing a very dynamic role within our company. Knowledge of and familiarity with Non-Profit organizations, grant reporting, fund accounting, completing month end closing and financial reports, accounts payable and receivable as well as restricted funds experience is preferred. If you are a non-profit professional with strong communication skills, have the ability to work with a variety of clients, and possess the above skills please contact Xxx Xxxxxxx with Xxxxxxt Xxxx Xxxxxxx and Accounting at xxx-xxx-xxxx or e-mail resume to….

Lies. All of it lies.

Go ahead and lie to me if my butt looks fat in those pants or if you hate what I just cooked you for dinner, but don’t lie to me about two things – money/work or love.

Someone sold someone else down the river here, and it’s hard to say who at this point. Maybe the owner really did tell this guy the position was more than it was. [And, by the way, any Director doing an interview should not be chewing electric turquoise gum. It’s unprofessional and revolting. Just saying.] Turns out this is not a controller’s job by any stretch of the imagination, there is no team to manage, and there is no need for high level skills. It’s a bookkeeper’s job. Staff Accountant. I haven’t been called that since I was fresh out of accounting classes. I just finished a corporate tax return (1120) with section 263(a) calculations and the corresponding state tax returns...for 12 states.  Does that sound like a staff accountant to you? Or someone who’d be satisfied to key in data day in, day out? Hardly.

What I look for can’t be that far off base (and yep, I consulted a good business friend, and got concurrence on my list):

a) intellectual stimulation

b) more challenge

c) high(er) income

d) title

e) somewhere I can make a positive difference and

f) somewhere I can influence change

Find me that, Mr. Recruiter.