Controller

The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and accounting process improvements across the organization. This role requires a hands-on accounting leader with a strong foundation in public accounting who can manage the day-to-day accounting function while developing a scalable control environment and implementing audit-quality standard operating procedures (SOPs). The Controller will oversee the accounting team, ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, strengthen internal controls, and serve as a key business partner to executive leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting & Reporting

• Lead all general accounting activities, including:
• • General ledger maintenance
  • Month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes
  • Account reconciliations
  • Fixed assets
  • Accruals and reserves
  • Revenue recognition
  • Payroll accounting
  • Cash management
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of financial results to management and stakeholders.
• Oversee external audit, tax, and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Research and document technical accounting matters and provide recommendations on accounting treatment.

Team Leadership & Management

• Manage, mentor, and develop the accounting team, including senior accountants, staff accountants, AP, AR, and payroll personnel.
• Establish performance goals, conduct reviews, and support employee development.
• Allocate resources and prioritize workloads to ensure deadlines are met.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth.

Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Assess, design, implement, and continuously enhance internal controls across accounting and finance functions.
• Develop, document, and maintain audit-ready accounting policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Establish process controls that support financial accuracy, operational efficiency, and risk mitigation.
• Identify control gaps and implement remediation plans.
• Lead efforts to improve documentation standards, workflow consistency, and segregation of duties.
• Partner with operational departments to strengthen financial processes and compliance controls.

Audit & Compliance

• Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors and coordinate annual audit activities.
• Prepare audit schedules, supporting documentation, and technical accounting memoranda.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, GAAP, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support implementation of best practices commonly utilized in public company and audit environments.

Systems & Operational Excellence

• Drive accounting process automation and ERP optimization initiatives.
• Evaluate and improve accounting workflows to increase efficiency and scalability.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to close processes, reconciliations, and financial controls.
• Support system implementations, upgrades, and integrations as needed.

Strategic Partnership

• Collaborate with executive leadership on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial planning initiatives.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
• Assist in due diligence, acquisitions, financing transactions, and other special projects as required.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.
• CPA designation required.
• 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, including public accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Experience managing accounting teams and leading month-end close processes.
• Demonstrated success improving accounting processes and implementing internal controls.
• Experience preparing for and managing external audits.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting/ERP systems.

Preferred

• Big 4 public accounting experience.
• Experience transitioning from public accounting into industry accounting leadership roles.
• Experience developing SOPs, accounting policies, and control documentation.
• Experience in a high-growth, private equity-backed, or public company environment.
• Familiarity with SOX principles and audit methodologies.

Key Competencies

• Strong technical accounting expertise
• Leadership and team development
• Internal control design and implementation
• Process improvement and change management
• Project management
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and executive presence
• Detail orientation with a continuous improvement mindset

Success Metrics

• Timely and accurate month-end close and financial reporting.
• Reduction in audit findings and control deficiencies.
• Development and implementation of comprehensive accounting SOPs.
• Strengthened internal control environment.
• Improved efficiency and scalability of accounting operations.
• High-performing, engaged accounting team.

This role is ideal for a CPA with a public accounting foundation who is ready to own the accounting function, build a best-in-class control environment, and lead a growing team while remaining actively involved in day-to-day accounting operations.