Controller

Our client is seeking an experienced and highly capable Controller to oversee accounting operations across several California entities and one outside-state entity. This is a critical leadership role for a professional who thrives in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment and can effectively manage the complexities of a multi-entity structure.

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical accounting expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to make efficient, well-informed decisions on a daily basis. This individual must be able to step back, assess situations, evaluate options, make decisions confidently, and move forward effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee full-cycle accounting and financial operations for multiple entities

Ensure compliance with all applicable accounting standards, internal controls, regulations, and reporting requirements

Manage month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes with accuracy and timeliness

Review and maintain strong internal controls, with a high emphasis on compliance and double-checking work

Support financial reporting, account reconciliations, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management

Navigate and manage the demands of a high-volume, fast-paced workflow

Work effectively across different personalities, entity cultures, regulations, and operational processes

Identify issues, evaluate solutions, and make sound decisions that support business continuity and accuracy

Partner closely with leadership to provide financial insight and operational support

Help stabilize and strengthen the accounting function in a role where precision, follow-through, and adaptability are essential

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Controller or in a senior-level accounting leadership role

Strong experience overseeing multi-entity accounting operations

Demonstrated success in a fast-paced environment with heavy workflow demands

Strong knowledge of compliance, internal controls, and financial oversight

Ability to work effectively in an environment that requires careful review, urgency, and high attention to detail

Confident decision-maker with the ability to assess situations and move work forward efficiently

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to navigate multiple personalities and working styles

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA preferred

What the Client is Looking For

This opportunity is best suited for a proven accounting leader who can step into a demanding environment and quickly add value. The client needs someone who can truly keep pace with the workload and complexity of a multi-entity operation. Success in this role will require resilience, sound judgment, adaptability, and a hands-on approach.

• 7+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience, including leadership responsibility in a Controller or similar role.
• Proven background managing finances for multiple entities or business units within a complex operating environment.
• Experience in one or more of the following sectors: hospitality, manufacturing, or retail.
• Strong knowledge of month-end close, daily reconciliations, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Proficiency with QuickBooks and confidence working within detailed, deadline-driven accounting processes.
• Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions independently in a fast-paced, compliance-focused workplace.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline.
• Executive-level communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and leadership groups.