Contract Controller

Description

Our client is seeking an experienced Controller to lead the accounting function and oversee the preparation, accuracy, and integrity of GAAP-compliant financial statements. This role is ideal for a hands-on accounting leader with strong technical accounting expertise, experience managing the close process, and a proven ability to support audits, compliance, and organizational growth.

The Controller will partner closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure sound financial stewardship, implement accounting best practices, strengthen internal controls, and drive continuous process improvements. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented professional who thrives in dynamic environments, exercises strong judgment, and effectively leads accounting teams. 

Key Responsibilities

Accounting & Financial Close Management

• Own and manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and complete financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
• Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
• Maintain and enforce a disciplined close calendar and reporting deadlines.
• Oversee multi-entity accounting activities and intercompany transactions.

Technical Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Serve as the primary authority on GAAP, accounting policies, and technical accounting matters.
• Research, document, and implement accounting treatment for complex transactions including:
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Equity transactions
  • Intercompany activities
  • Lease accounting
  • Revenue recognition
• Evaluate and prepare technical accounting position papers under GAAP and/or IFRS.
• Maintain accounting policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Lead implementation of new accounting standards and pronouncement transitions, including lease accounting, revenue recognition, CECL, and related standards.
• Support public-company readiness initiatives and SEC reporting requirements when applicable.

Audit, Tax & Compliance

• Lead all external audits, reviews, and examinations.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and tax advisors.
• Manage audit planning, prepared-by-client (PBC) requests, issue resolution, and final deliverables.
• Coordinate income tax, sales and use tax, payroll tax, and other compliance filings with external advisors.
• Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, regulations, and company policies.

Internal Controls & Risk Management

• Design, implement, and maintain effective internal controls.
• Assess financial and operational risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Monitor control effectiveness and recommend enhancements.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Oversee the accounting system of record and related subledgers.
• Ensure system configurations support GAAP compliance and scalable operations.
• Partner with Finance, Operations, and IT teams to maintain data integrity and improve reporting capabilities.
• Drive process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and transparency.
• Evaluate, organize, summarize, and interpret accounting and operational data to support decision-making.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor accounting personnel, establishing clear expectations and accountability.
• Review work products and provide coaching to support professional growth.
• Develop and maintain effective staffing structures, responsibilities, and workflows.
• Foster a collaborative team culture centered on communication, development, and continuous improvement.
• Support technical accounting training and professional development initiatives.

Strategic Partnership & Communication

• Partner with executive leadership on accounting implications of strategic initiatives.
• Collaborate with FP&A, Operations, and other departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and data consistency.
• Clearly communicate accounting conclusions, risks, and recommendations to leadership.
• Build and maintain strong professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Active CPA license required.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive accounting experience.
• Public accounting experience strongly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and technical accounting.
• Demonstrated ownership of month-end close processes and external audits.
• Experience with multi-entity and intercompany accounting.
• ERP system experience (NetSuite preferred or equivalent platform).
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.
• Proven experience leading and developing accounting professionals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of tax compliance and reporting requirements.