Controller (SaaS) - Contract-to-Hire

Our client is a venture-backed SaaS company looking for a hands-on Controller to lead both accounting and core finance operations.This role is structured as a contract-to-hire engagement, with the expectation of full-time conversion based on mutual fit.The Controller will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy of financials while also supporting forecasting, financial visibility, and day-to-day decision-making across the business.This is a hands-on role in a lean environment, where the Controller will play a key role in bringing structure, consistency, and clarity to the financial function.What You'll OwnAccounting & Close Lead all accounting operations: Billing, A/R, A/P, GL, and Revenue Recognition Own month-end and year-end close processes Prepare timely, accurate financial statements Financial Reporting & Visibility Build and maintain internal reporting packages for leadership Ensure consistency and integrity of financial data across the organization Provide insight into financial performance, not just reporting Planning & Forecasting Support budgeting and forecasting processes Analyze variances and help leadership understand drivers of performance Improve forecasting accuracy over time Operational Finance Partner cross-functionally (Engineering, Sales, Operations) to align financials with business activity Translate business activity into financial impact and decision support Identify areas where process, structure, or visibility needs to improve Process & Controls Develop and refine accounting policies and internal controls Improve workflows and systems to support scale Ensure readiness for audit and compliance requirementsWhat We're Looking ForProven experience as a Controller in a SaaS environment Experience owning both accounting and finance responsibilities Ability to operate in a lean, fast-moving environment with competing priorities Comfortable working in a globally distributed organization Strong ownership mindset with the ability to operate independentlyWhy This RoleThis is an opportunity to step into a role with real ownership, bring structure to a complex environment, and work closely with leadership as the business continues to evolve.Work Environment Hybrid role with periodic in-person collaboration required in the Peninsula area Candidates must be based in the San Francisco Bay AreaRequirements10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including time as a Controller or equivalent lead roleDeep understanding of SaaS metrics (ARR, revenue recognition, deferred revenue, etc.) Hands-on experience with Sage IntacctProven working experience as a Controller in a small to mid-size VC backed companyBachelor's degree in Accounting or related field (advanced degree a plus)CPA or CMA preferredDeep experience with month-end close and financial statement preparation Understanding of GAAP and financial reportingBenefitsContract Phase (Initial Engagement): Hourly rate No benefits during the contract period Upon Conversion to Full-Time: Base salary: $200,000-$220,000 + bonus Health benefits: 100% employee / 95% dependent coverage Discretionary PTO 401(k) (no match) Additional long-term incentive tied to company outcomes