Controller

HR Media & Co. is seeking a Controller for our client, a mission-driven financial education company focused on advancing financial literacy and building generational wealth in underserved communities.Position Title: ControllerLocation: Atlanta, GA (Hybrid)Reports to: Chief Financial OfficerJob Type: Full TimePosition Summary:The Controller will oversee and implement the company's accounting operations and financial processes, providing day-to-day financial management and direction across accounting, reporting, budgeting, payroll, and compliance functions. This role will support financial planning efforts, maintain strong internal controls, and ensure the accuracy and integrity of all financial data across multiple entities.The Controller will partner closely with the CFO to provide insights on financial performance, improve systems and processes, and help scale the company's financial infrastructure. As a key steward of the company's financial records and operations, this individual will play a critical role in maintaining fiscal discipline, managing risk, and driving operational efficiency.The ideal candidate will be passionately committed to the company's mission, aligned, and bring a strong mix of experience in accounting, financial reporting, financial planning, total rewards and benefits, and process improvement in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment.The company does not currently have a formal benefits program in place. This role will lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of employee benefits, and compensation may be reviewed as the structure is finalized.Responsibilities:Financial Operations & AccountingOversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, journal entries, and financial reporting across all entitiesLead month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timeliness and accuracyOwn the month-end close process, with books closed by the 10th of each monthPrepare and maintain financial statements, including P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow reports for multiple entitiesManage accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and expense reportingMaintain accuracy and proper classification of all financial transactionsReconcile all bank accounts monthlyCash Flow, Risk & ComplianceManage cash flow and provide weekly cash position reporting to leadershipIdentify financial risks and implement mitigation strategiesMaintain compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations and reporting requirementsSupport tax filings, audits, and coordination with the CFO and external CPA partnersEstablish and strengthen internal controls and financial policiesFinancial Planning & AnalysisSupport budgeting and forecasting processes across business unitsConduct variance analysis and provide actionable insights to leadershipAnalyze financial performance to identify trends, risks, and growth opportunitiesAssist in building scalable financial structures to support company growthSystems, Processes & StrategyEvaluate and improve financial systems, processes, and workflowsOptimize the chart of accounts, cost centers, and reporting structuresManage banking, vendor, and financial software relationshipsPartner cross-functionally to align financial metrics with business goalsTotal Rewards & BenefitsLead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of employee benefits programs within the first 90 daysPlay a key role in shaping and supporting the organization's total rewards strategyQualifications:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; MBA or CPA preferred5+ years of experience as a Controller or in a senior accounting role within a midsize companyExperience managing multi-entity or multi-division accounting environmentsExperience supporting a high-growth company with approximately $10M+ in revenue, including scaling financial operations and infrastructureStrong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controlsExperience with accounting systems (e.g., QuickBooks, Blackbaud, NetSuite)Advanced Excel skills (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUPs, formulas)Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsExperience managing cash flow, compliance, and audit processesAffiliations with financial associations and organizations are a plusRemain accessible and responsive outside standard hours occasionally, including evenings and weekends as neededThis role is ideal for individuals who thrive in a high-growth environment and are excited to help build and scale financial infrastructure.