Controller

Controller

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or CEO

Department: Accounting and Finance

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job summary

The Controller oversees all accounting operations, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial reporting, robust internal controls, and compliance with all applicable regulations. This hands-on leader will manage the day-to-day financial functions of the company while providing strategic analysis and guidance to senior management to support overall business growth and decision-making.

Core responsibilities

Financial reporting and analysis

Direct and oversee the preparation and analysis of all financial statements, including monthly, quarterly, and annual balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports, in accordance with GAAP.

Provide timely and accurate financial reports to senior leadership, explaining variances and communicating key financial insights.

Coordinate the annual budgeting and re-forecasting processes, working with department heads to develop and track financial plans.

Manage cash flow forecasting and oversee all treasury functions, including banking and financing relationships.

Operational accounting

Supervise all accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger, and cost accounting.

Ensure the timely and accurate completion of month-end and year-end closing processes.

Review all balance sheet reconciliations, journal entries, and financial schedules for accuracy and completeness.

Maintain and document a comprehensive set of accounting policies and procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency.

Internal controls and compliance

Develop, implement, and maintain a system of strong internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the integrity of financial data.

Manage and coordinate all internal and external audit activities, acting as the primary liaison with external auditors and tax advisors.

Ensure full compliance with all local, state, and federal government reporting requirements and tax filings.

Stay up-to-date on changes in GAAP and other relevant financial regulations and standards.

Team leadership and development

Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Clarify roles and responsibilities and provide training to maximize team performance and reach organizational goals.

Create and promote a culture of high performance and continuous improvement within the finance function.

Strategic collaboration

Collaborate with senior management and cross-functional teams to provide financial insights that inform business initiatives and strategic planning.

Partner with Human Resources and IT to enhance and integrate finance and administrative systems and processes.

Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, assisting with financial strategy and long-term planning.

Qualifications

Experience and education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; a master's degree (MBA) is preferred.

Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is required.

Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in accounting and finance, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.

Experience in the [specific industry, e.g., manufacturing, SaaS, healthcare] is highly desirable.

Skills and competencies

Thorough knowledge of US GAAP and a strong understanding of internal controls and financial regulations.

Expert proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Proven analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with a high attention to detail.

Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to present complex financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.

High level of integrity, ethical conduct, and discretion with confidential information.