Controller

Are you a leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys building accounting functions that drive business success? Our client, a growing South Jersey organization, is seeking an experienced Controller to lead its accounting and finance operations while serving as a strategic partner to executive leadership.This is an opportunity for a hands-on accounting leader who is equally comfortable closing the books, mentoring a team, improving processes, and providing financial insights that influence key business decisions. You'll have the opportunity to modernize systems, strengthen internal controls, and help shape the financial future of a rapidly growing company.What You'll DoFinancial Reporting & Accounting OperationsLead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.Review journal entries, account reconciliations, accruals, and general ledger activity.Prepare monthly financial statements and deliver meaningful variance analysis to senior leadership.Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and chart of accounts.Coordinate annual audits and collaborate with external auditors and tax advisors.Continuously enhance the close process through improved efficiencies and best practices.Cash Flow, Billing & Working CapitalOversee all billing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and cash management activities.Monitor collections, aging reports, and customer billing to improve cash flow.Partner with operations and sales to resolve invoicing issues and streamline revenue processes.Ensure timely vendor payments while optimizing working capital.Track key performance metrics including DSO, payment trends, and cash flow performance.Budgeting & Financial PlanningLead the annual budgeting process across all departments.Develop financial models, forecasts, and budget-to-actual reporting.Provide leadership with actionable financial insights to support strategic planning and decision-making.Identify financial trends and recommend opportunities to improve profitability.Internal Controls & Process ImprovementEstablish and maintain strong accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.Identify operational risks and implement scalable financial processes.Drive automation initiatives that improve reporting accuracy and reduce manual work.Support ERP enhancements, system upgrades, and reporting improvements.Payroll OversightOversee payroll operations, ensuring accurate and timely processing.Review payroll, commissions, bonuses, and related accruals.Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll regulations.Partner with Human Resources on compensation changes, employee records, and benefits administration.Leadership & Team DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop the accounting team while fostering a collaborative and accountable culture.Establish clear expectations, monitor performance, and support professional growth.Build a finance department that serves as a trusted business partner throughout the organization.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.8–10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including prior Controller or Assistant Controller leadership experience.CPA designation preferred, but not required.Proven success leading month-end close, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls.Strong understanding of billing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and cash management.Experience managing and developing accounting teams.Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting tools is highly desirable.