Controller

Controller Columbus, OH Job Details 10 hours ago Qualifications Cash flow management Business financial process improvement General ledger reconciliation Financial forecasting Accounting systems Financial close processing Managerial strategic planning Budget management Strategic management Internal controls Financial model construction Accounts payable Retirement plan management Operations management Variance analysis Financial model development Data migration Sales tax Procedural guides Bachelor's degree in finance Leave management ERP systems Process improvement Lead generation Payroll management Financial performance report preparation ROI Compliance management implementation Finance Master's degree Digital transformation Team development Key Performance Indicators Business development Policy & process development Managing budgets in a finance role Project management Bachelor's degree Bank experience GAAP Sales pipeline Requirements analysis Staff training Liquidity management Managing accounting teams Mentoring Quality control operations Accounting and finance experience Cash management Quality systems Office management Bachelor's degree in accounting Business requirements Senior level Financial audit support Leadership Financial systems implementation Accounting Communication skills Staffing management Marketing Negotiation Financial compliance Staff development 10 years Performance evaluation Full Job Description Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: The Controller leads the firm's accounting and finance functions, ensuring accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and sound cash and risk management for a project-based engineering company. This role directs general ledger and project accounting, budgeting and forecasting, billing and collections, and tax and audit coordination, while serving as a strategic partner to leadership. Corporate and Departmental Reporting, Analysis, and Planning The preparation and presentation of financial statements and reports that provide a comprehensive overview of the entire company's financial performance and position. Additionally, providing financial and operational insights specifically tailored to individual departments within the company. Responsible for managing the staff and functions of the Accounting Department to include but not limited to: Oversee accounting operations including general ledger, accounts receivable, account payable, job costing, and all related reconciliations. Oversee sales and use tax filing and compliance. Developing financial reporting packages for senior leadership. Ensuring compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations and statutory compliance testing. Manage the year-end audit and tax reporting processes Forecasting, budgeting, metric reporting and control, variance analysis. Cash flow and working capital management. Risk management and insurance analysis, selection and renewals. Departmental performance metrics. Monthly, annual financial statement compilation, analysis and reporting, delivered by the 10th business day of each month. 3. Provide agreed upon Corporate and departmental reports and analysis to operational leadership to help drive awareness and efficiency. 4. Lead Corporate planning initiatives that contribute to or supports planning activities that affect the entire organization. 5. Lead Department planning initiatives that include establishing specific goals, budgets, staffing plans, and timelines that align with the department's objectives. 6. Lead and develop the finance/accounting function, including setting and achieving departmental goals and objectives. 7. Provide cash forecasting and working capital planning, including 13-week cash forecasting as needed. 8. Establish clear processes, accountability, and firm-wide financial discipline. 9. Strengthen the collections process to improve the cash conversion cycle. 10. Discuss client aging reports with departmental leadership. 11. Manage the ESOP and 401k, the consultants used for the plans and compliance with Federal laws. 12. Measures Leadership receives clear, decision-ready reporting and forecasting. Accuracy and timeliness of cash forecasts and working capital plans. Implementation and adherence to firm-wide financial discipline. Measurable improvement in collection rates and cash conversion cycle (Collection rate of less than 65 days). Effectiveness in managing banking relationships and securing favorable credit terms. Business Development - Marketing and Sales Provide crucial financial insights, analysis, and strategic support that drive growth. 1. Create detailed budgets for sales initiatives, headcount, travel, resources, etc., ensuring they align with company financial goals. 2. Provide input and methodologies for forecasting sales revenue pipelines, helping to make achievable targets. 3. Track and analyze the return on investment (ROI) for specific marketing campaigns and lead generation efforts. This includes comparing costs with the revenue generated or leads acquired. 4. Flag financial trends, opportunities, or risks related to marketing expenses and sales pipeline. 5. Provide financial modeling and analysis to evaluate the viability and potential profitability of new market entries or service offerings. 6. Measures a. Achieve positive feedback from at least 80% of leadership team members regarding responsiveness, helpfulness, and strategic contribution, as measured through performance evaluations or structured feedback sessions. b. Analyze the marketing budget, determine the ROI, and provide input on alternative strategies. Company Administration The oversight and management of the operational functions that keep the company running smoothly and efficiently. 1. Create a culture of trust and partnership with the President, Vice President, Directors, Board of Directors, and firm. 2. Define and document processes and procedures. 3. Coordinate, organize, and support departmental leadership to ensure they have what is needed to perform their jobs. 4. Focuses on administrative, documentation, and communication that enable teams to work efficiently and achieve objectives. 5. Partner with Project Managers (PMs) to improve project forecasting, fee burn tracking, and margin outcomes. 6. Improve billing accuracy and speed; monitor unbilled accounts receivable, write-offs, aging, and collections. 7. Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices to enhance financial operations efficiency. 8. Maintain the highest ethical standards for the Accounting Department. 9. Manage banking relationships and support the negotiation of credit facilities and terms. Technology Application of technical knowledge and the use of specialized tools, software, or systems are required to perform job tasks efficiently and meet organizational goals. Ensure that accounting system and individual downtime are at an absolute minimum level. Ensure compliance with the equipment replacement standards Manage the Managed Service Provider (MSP) to ensure appropriate backup. Lead the selection and implementation of an upgraded Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP), accounting, and project management system. Drive requirements gathering, workflow design, reporting needs, and user adoption for new financial systems. Oversee data cleanup/migration, testing, training, and go-live readiness for ERP modernization. Manage and optimize the use of financial software and ERP systems. Measures ERP modernization progresses as budgeted, on time and with high user adoption. Enhanced internal controls and process documentation through system upgrades. Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) The process and inspections used to ensure that all work meets established standards, specifications, and client requirements through the prevention, detection, and correction of errors. Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, payroll coordination, and expense management workflows, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Maintain general ledger integrity, reconciliations, and accounting policies. Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Coordinate tax filings and year-end work with external CPA firm(s); support audits/reviews/compilations as needed; ensure audit-ready documentation. Implement best practices for internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure accurate financial data. Manage the year-end audit function. Measures a. Month-end close is consistent, timely, and accurate. b. Successful and timely completion of audits/reviews/compilations. Human Resources and Office Management Supports the organization's resources and facilitates smooth administrative operations, enabling efficient operations. 1. Responsible for managing the accounting staff and functions. 2. Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team. 3. Set clear performance goals and expectations for each accounting staff member. 4. Conduct regular performance reviews. 5. Assess individual and team training needs. 6. Allocate accounting tasks and responsibilities fairly and efficiently. 7. Approve and manage time-off requests, ensuring adequate coverage for departmental operations. 8. Measures a. Complete the reviews as required and on time. Continuing Education Annual training programs that support company objectives and employee growth. Encourage and facilitate continuous professional development for the accounting team. Stay current with accounting principles, industry trends, and technology advancements. Special project and assignments delegated by the President. Assumes responsibilities for special assignments delegated by leadership, with a particular focus on the firm's ERP systems modernization initiative. Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance is required. A master's degree is preferred. 10+ years of progressive finance/accounting experience, with at least 10 years in an architectural or engineering firm. Proven experience leading or owning accounting close and financial reporting processes. Experience managing and mentoring accounting staff. Demonstrated experience working with or implementing ERP/accounting systems. Strong Excel/financial modeling capability and comfort with reporting tools. Excels at active communication internally and externally.

Strongly Preferred:

Experience in engineering, architecture, construction, or other professional services; project-based accounting, job costing, and WIP reporting; improving AR/collections and cash forecasting; negotiating with banks and managing credit facilities. Work Environment and Physical Demands - The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. When properly requested and when feasible, reasonable accommodation will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. This job is essentially a sedentary role; however, standing, walking, sitting, reaching with hands and arms, stooping or kneeling, talking, and hearing are required. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. This job operates in a professional office environment. While the company enjoys a hybrid work environment, this position requires working in the office. Overtime may be necessary as workloads dictate. This may include weekdays, weekends, and/or holidays. Due to the collaborative nature of this position and accessibility for in-house and on-site client meetings, it is essential that the work be performed in the office and during regular business hours. Some travel may be required. The employee may occasionally be exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, high places, fumes, or airborne particles, outside weather conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, and the risk of electrical shock. Supervisory Responsibilities - This position includes direct supervisory responsibilities for the accounting team.