Controller

Job Description

GHJ Search and Staffing serves as the recruitment division of GHJ, a prominent national accounting and advisory firm. Our team provides qualified Accounting and Finance professionals on a temporary and permanent basis across a broad range of industries. GHJ’s relationship with our Global Advisory and Accounting Network provides the resources needed to better understand client’s needs, attract a higher caliber of candidates and assess candidate potential.

Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Controller to build and lead a scalable accounting function for a fast-growing, multi-entity financial services organization. This role is instrumental in overseeing GAAP reporting, the monthly close process, audits, and internal controls, while strengthening systems and processes to support rapid growth, including through acquisitions. Reporting directly to the CFO, the Controller will manage and mentor the accounting team, drive operational excellence, and ensure a strong foundation for continued expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Accounting Operations
• Oversee all accounting functions across operating and non-operating entities.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, including reconciliations, journal entries, accruals, supporting schedules, and variance analysis.
• Deliver GAAP-compliant financial statements and management reports; maintain close calendars and documentation.
• Coordinate payroll, benefits, and compensation accounting, including bonus and incentive accruals.
• Implement and maintain robust internal controls, policies, and accounting procedures to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Manage accounts payable, corporate card programs, expense reports, and vendor lifecycle management (W-⁹⁄₁₀₉₉, terms, compliance).
• Oversee accounts receivable and billing processes for recurring revenue, ensuring proper accruals and cutoff discipline.
• Manage treasury operations, including cash management, banking relationships, and short-term cash forecasting.
• Build, lead, and develop an accounting team to support ongoing growth and scalability.
• Collaborate with external accounting partners for capacity or specialized work; define scopes, quality standards, and deliverables.
• Support purchase accounting and post-acquisition integration efforts, aligning policies, systems, and controls.
• Integrate acquired entities into the accounting and reporting ecosystem, managing intercompany activity and consolidations.
• Audit & Tax
• Serve as primary liaison for annual audits and periodic reviews, overseeing PBC coordination and issue resolution.
• Prepare and maintain technical accounting documentation for ASC 606 (revenue), ASC 842 (leases), and ASC 805 (business combinations).
• Coordinate with external advisors for federal, state, and local tax filings, including multi-entity and partnership structures.
• Systems, Data & Automation
• Act as product owner for accounting and finance systems, ensuring they support growth and accuracy (e.g., Sage Intacct, Bill.com, Divvy/Bill Spend & Expense).
• Design and maintain an efficient chart of accounts and reporting structure to support consolidated and segment-level reporting.
• Drive automation and process improvements to accelerate close timelines and improve data integrity.
• Partner with operations and IT on data systems impacting revenue recognition and reporting.
• FP&A & Executive Support
• Lead the annual budgeting process and partner with finance on rolling forecasts and variance analyses.
• Translate financial results into clear, actionable insights for leadership.
• Contribute to board reporting, covenant tracking, and other executive deliverables.
• Support ad hoc projects, strategic initiatives, and special analyses as requested by senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field required; CPA required. Master’s in Accounting preferred.
• 7–12+ years of progressive experience, including a blend of public accounting and private industry controllership.
• Experience in financial services, wealth management, or related industries strongly preferred.
• Proven track record managing audits, month-end close, and technical accounting areas (ASC 805, 606, 842).
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and familiarity with Power BI or other reporting tools.
• Experience with modern accounting software, such as Sage Intacct, Bill.com, and expense management platforms.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with a “builder’s mindset.”
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex accounting topics to non-finance stakeholders.
• Strong leadership, integrity, and ability to develop high-performing teams.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary plus 10-20% annual bonus
• 401(k) retirement plan and employer HSA contribution.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Continuing education and professional development support.
• Fitness and wellness programs, internal networking events, and career advancement opportunities.
• A collaborative, mission-driven culture that values transparency, growth, and excellence.

$185,000 - $235,000 a year

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