Purple Squirrel Advisors
Position Summary
The Controller will be a key financial leader responsible for managing and strengthening the accounting function within a private equity backed company. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position will oversee the full accounting cycle across multiple branches, ensuring timely and accurate month-end closes, financial reporting, and compliance. This is a “hands-on” role that requires leading a team of accounting professionals, driving process improvements, and implementing automation tools to streamline accounts receivable and payable functions. The Controller will partner closely with operational leaders to deliver clear, actionable financial insights that support the company’s growth objectives.
Responsibilities
Lead and manage the accounting department, overseeing multiple team members.
Drive timely and accurate financial reporting, reducing the monthly close from approximately 15 days to 7 days or less.
Automate and streamline core accounting processes, including accounts receivable and accounts payable, with potential implementation of new software.
Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and private equity reporting requirements.
Develop, manage, and maintain the company’s budgeting and forecasting processes, providing insight into operational performance and supporting strategic decision-making.
Assess current team capabilities, provide coaching, development, and training, and upgrade skills where needed.
Partner with operational leaders to deliver actionable financial insights that support strategic and growth initiatives.
Lead the accounting function in a 5 day, in-office environment, driving accountability, discipline, and improved productivity.
Support ongoing process improvements and automation initiatives to scale the department alongside business growth.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
CPA is a plus.
Experience at a regional public accounting firm is a plus.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience.
Minimum of 3 years of leadership experience managing an accounting or finance team.
Strong understanding of GAAP standards and compliance requirements.
Hands-on experience with process improvement, automation, and streamlining the monthly close.
Proven experience in budgeting and forecasting processes is preferred.
Private equity experience is highly preferred; multi-site manufacturing/distribution experience is a plus.
Experience with accounting system implementations is a plus.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities effectively.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Small ERP system experience required.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Accounting/Auditing and Finance
Industries
Wholesale
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Responsibilities
Lead and manage the accounting department, overseeing multiple team members.
Drive timely and accurate financial reporting, reducing the monthly close from approximately 15 days to 7 days or less.
Automate and streamline core accounting processes, including accounts receivable and accounts payable, with potential implementation of new software.
Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and private equity reporting requirements.
Develop, manage, and maintain the company’s budgeting and forecasting processes, providing insight into operational performance and supporting strategic decision-making.
Assess current team capabilities, provide coaching, development, and training, and upgrade skills where needed.
Partner with operational leaders to deliver actionable financial insights that support strategic and growth initiatives.
Lead the accounting function in a 5 day, in-office environment, driving accountability, discipline, and improved productivity.
Support ongoing process improvements and automation initiatives to scale the department alongside business growth.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
CPA is a plus.
Experience at a regional public accounting firm is a plus.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience.
Minimum of 3 years of leadership experience managing an accounting or finance team.
Strong understanding of GAAP standards and compliance requirements.
Hands-on experience with process improvement, automation, and streamlining the monthly close.
Proven experience in budgeting and forecasting processes is preferred.
Private equity experience is highly preferred; multi-site manufacturing/distribution experience is a plus.
Experience with accounting system implementations is a plus.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities effectively.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Small ERP system experience required.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Accounting/Auditing and Finance
Industries
Wholesale
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr