The Controller oversees accounting for multiple clients, providing financial leadership, managing accounting processes, and improving efficiency. They mentor teams, review financials, and act as a strategic partner to clients.
Controller
Out of the Box Technology
Overview
The Controller serves as the accounting lead and strategic financial partner for a portfolio of clients, delivering high-level accounting oversight, financial insight, and operational guidance.
This role is designed for an experienced accounting professional who thrives in a client services environment and brings strong technical accounting expertise, leadership capability, and business acumen. The Controller partners directly with business owners and client stakeholders to oversee financial operations, improve accounting processes, and deliver timely, accurate financial reporting.
Primary Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Client Partnership
- Serve as the lead accounting advisor for a portfolio of clients, acting as their outsourced Controller and trusted financial partner
- Guide clients on financial performance, operational trends, cash flow considerations, and accounting best practices
- Lead recurring financial review meetings with clients and present insights in a clear, strategic manner
- Support clients in improving accounting processes, internal controls, and financial visibility
- Build strong client relationships through proactive communication and high-quality advisory support
Accounting Oversight & Review
- Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes across client engagements
- Review financial statements, reconciliations, journal entries, and supporting workpapers for accuracy and completeness
- Ensure proper accounting treatment and adherence to GAAP/best practices across client books
- Troubleshoot complex accounting issues and provide technical guidance on unusual transactions
- Maintain audit-ready financials and support tax/audit deliverables as needed
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead and review the work of Senior Accountants, Accountants, and Bookkeepers assigned to client engagements
- Delegate responsibilities across engagement teams to ensure efficient delivery and proper utilization
- Coach team members on technical accounting, client service, and best practices
- Provide feedback and support team development through ongoing mentorship
Process Improvement & Operational Support
- Assess client accounting workflows and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and scalability
- Lead cleanup, catch-up, and process optimization projects for clients with evolving accounting needs
- Support implementation and optimization of accounting systems, reporting packages, and integrations
- Drive adoption of automation and technology-enabled solutions where appropriate
Core Competencies
- Advisory Mindset: Provides strategic insight, not just transactional accounting support
- Leadership: Effectively leads teams and develops junior staff
- Client Partnership: Builds trust and confidence with business owners and leadership teams
- Technical Accounting Expertise: Strong command of accounting operations and reporting
- Operational Excellence: Maintains high standards of accuracy, timeliness, and organization
- Problem Solving: Identifies root causes and drives practical solutions
- Executive Communication: Comfortable presenting financial information to leadership audiences
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in outsourced accounting, client accounting services, or public accounting
- Prior experience leading month-end close and financial reporting functions
- Experience managing client relationships and presenting financials to stakeholders
- Experience reviewing/delegating work across accounting teams
- Advanced proficiency in QuickBooks Online (QBO) and QuickBooks Desktop (QBD)
- Strong understanding of GAAP, accrual accounting, and operational accounting processes
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