Controller
Description:
Job Description
Job Description: Controller
Company: Zeppa’s
Location: Louisville, KY
Position Type: Full-Time Exempt On-Site
Reports To: CEO / Owner
Position Summary
Zeppa’s is a fast-growing landscape company offering full-service residential and commercial landscaping, including installation, maintenance, enhancements, and seasonal offerings. We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Controller to oversee the financial operations of the business, ensure strong internal controls, and provide strategic financial guidance to support continued growth.
The Controller will be responsible for managing all accounting operations, producing timely and accurate financial reports, overseeing budgeting and cash flow, and working directly with leadership to optimize financial performance.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
Manage the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process.
Prepare and analyze financial statements and internal management reports.
Oversee general ledger, journal entries, and reconciliations.
Oversee payroll processing for all employees, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with state/federal regulations.
Manage employee benefits administration including health insurance enrollments, renewals, and deductions.
Oversee company retirement plan contributions and reporting (e.g., SIMPLE IRA or 401k).
Track and administer PTO balances, sick leave, and vacation accruals.
Budgeting & Forecasting
Lead annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting.
Track performance against budget and explain variances.
Support department heads with budget planning and expense controls.
Cash Flow & Treasury
Monitor daily cash balances and cash flow projections.
Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and collections.
Manage credit cards, vendor relationships, and payment schedules.
Process Improvement & Internal Controls
Implement and maintain financial controls, policies, and procedures.
Streamline accounting systems and reporting using software such as QuickBooks Online and Aspire.
Identify operational inefficiencies and work with leadership to improve them.
Administer and track incentive and commission plans for the sales team.
Compliance & Risk Management
Coordinate with external CPAs, tax advisors, and legal professionals.
Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal reporting requirements.
Support insurance audits, workers comp, and H2A/H2B financial documentation as needed.
Prepare and file monthly sales tax reports in compliance with state/local jurisdictions.
Leadership & Strategic Insight
Serve as a financial advisor to the owner and senior leadership team.
Provide insights into profitability, pricing, margins, and growth planning.
Help evaluate new ventures, capital expenditures, and business expansion.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required (CPA or MBA preferred).
5+ years of accounting/finance experience; prior experience as Controller or senior-level accounting leader preferred.
Experience in construction, landscaping, or field services industry is helpful but not required
Proficiency with QuickBooks Online required; Aspire or similar CRM/ERP software a plus.
Strong understanding of job costing, WIP schedules, and cash-based vs accrual-based accounting.
Proven ability to implement process improvements and manage multiple priorities.
Personal Traits We Value
High integrity and confidentiality
Strong analytical and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Leadership mindset with attention to detail
Passion for systems, efficiency, and helping teams succeed
Benefits
Competitive salary based on experience
Paid time off and holidays
Opportunity for growth in a values-driven, entrepreneurial company
Discounted services and company perks
Full-time