Controller

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The Controller will manage all accounting and financial operations for a professional services firm delivering project-based work. This role oversees project accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, payroll, and compliance while providing strategic financial guidance to senior management. The position requires hands-on leadership of accounting functions and strong project management capabilities.

What you will be doing

• Oversee all accounting department functions including project accounting, profitability analysis, and budget monitoring
• Administer work orders, invoices, and purchase orders while maintaining communication with clients, contractors, and suppliers
• Prepare and analyze project cash flow statements, Work-In-Progress reports, and financial working papers
• Lead payroll administration and supervise accounts payable and receivable functions
• Develop, implement, and enforce internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with accounting standards and tax laws
• Provide strategic financial insights and manage business cash flow and forecasting
• Manage overall financial operations including budgeting, audit preparation, and reporting

What the role requires

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Minimum 5 years' experience as a Controller or Senior Accountant
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial principles
• Proficient in accounting software and Microsoft Excel
• Prior experience in interior design, architecture, or real estate development industries preferred

Designations

What your resume should make obvious

Screeners spend seconds on a first pass. For this role, these are the things worth putting where they will be seen.

• Specify your project accounting experience: types of projects, contract values, and number of concurrent projects managed
• Quantify your WIP reporting: how many active projects tracked and reporting frequency
• Name the accounting software platforms you have used, particularly for project-based accounting
• Show evidence of implementing internal controls or improving accounting processes
• Highlight your industry background if you have worked in professional services, design, construction, or development sectors
• Demonstrate payroll administration scope: number of employees and pay cycles managed

Where people in this role usually come from

Candidates typically come from controller or senior accountant roles in project-based professional services environments such as design firms, architecture practices, construction companies, or real estate development. Experience managing project accounting with multiple concurrent engagements and client billing is common in successful backgrounds.