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RH
Robert Half
Controller
Career Insights for Controller (General)
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Based on California data
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What they do
A Controller directs and oversees the treasury of a government, private corporation or non-profit organization, and may oversee the investment of funds. Supervises the quality of accounting and financial reporting within an organization, and directs preparation of reports that show the financial position of an organization.
$171,473 / year median in California
-4% projected decline
Job Description
Description We are looking for a strategic and hands-on Controller to lead the financial operations of a growing advertising agency in Santa Monica, California. This position will work closely with executive leadership to strengthen financial visibility, support business planning, and maintain accurate, timely reporting across the organization. The ideal candidate brings strong accounting expertise, project-based financial management experience, and the ability to balance day-to-day execution with long-term financial guidance. Please submit your resume to Eric Herndon for confidential consideration.
Responsibilities:
- Direct core accounting operations across accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, the general ledger, and the monthly close process.
- Produce monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports that are accurate, timely, and aligned with applicable accounting standards.
- Oversee project-based financial activity by tracking budgets, evaluating margins, monitoring billable utilization, and applying appropriate revenue recognition practices.
- Examine client agreements to confirm billing terms, financial commitments, and contractual requirements are properly managed.
- Lead the annual budget process, recurring forecasts, cash planning, and financial modeling to support leadership decision-making.
- Track outstanding receivables, support collection efforts, and help maintain healthy cash flow across the business.
- Build and refine client budgets, pricing approaches, indirect rate structures, and profitability measurements.
- Maintain compliance with tax obligations, audit expectations, and financial terms outlined in client contracts.
- Identify opportunities to reduce costs, strengthen internal controls, and improve the efficiency of financial processes. Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
- At least 7 years of progressive experience in accounting and financial leadership roles.
- Demonstrated success with project accounting in an advertising, marketing, service-based, or government contracting setting.
- Strong understanding of contract review, client billing structures, and financial compliance requirements.
- Solid background in budgeting, forecasting, cash flow oversight, and financial statement preparation.
- Advanced Excel capabilities; experience with Clients & Profits is an advantage.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
- Proficiency with general ledger management and financial document preparation.