Controller - PE-Backed - Advertising/Tech Co.

We are partnering with a high-growth, private equity–backed digital media platform operating at national scale. The business has established a strong market presence, delivering premium, data-driven advertising solutions across a distributed physical network. The company is entering its next phase of growth and transformation, with a focus on scalability, operational efficiency, and technology-enabled finance infrastructure. This is a highly visible role with direct exposure to executive leadership and investors.The Controller will lead and modernize the controllership function, evolving it into a best-in-class, tech-enabled finance operation. This is not a traditional accounting role—it is designed for a leader who can drive transformation, leverage automation/AI, and architect scalable delivery models. You will partner closely with the CFO and leadership team to enhance reporting, improve working capital dynamics, and support strategic initiatives.Key Responsibilities:Controllership & Financial OperationsLead all accounting operations including close, consolidation, and financial reportingEnsure compliance with U.S. GAAP and maintain strong internal controlsDrive audit readiness in a private equity-backed environmentCash Flow & Working Capital ManagementOwn liquidity planning, including a rolling 13-week cash forecastOptimize receivables, billing cycles, and vendor payment strategiesPartner cross-functionally to align cash management with operational prioritiesTransformation & Operating Model DesignBuild a modern controllership function leveraging automation, AI, and outsourcingStreamline processes, reduce manual effort, and accelerate close timelinesEvaluate and implement scalable finance technologiesExecutive Reporting & Business PartnershipDeliver clear, decision-ready financial insights to executives and investorsPartner with FP&A to align reporting across actuals, forecasts, and KPIsTranslate complex financial data into actionable business insightsLeadership & Team DevelopmentLead and develop a high-performing accounting teamFoster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvementServe as a strategic partner to the CFO on value creation initiativesCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Revenue, Operations, Technology, and Legal on:Revenue recognitionBilling structuresContracting and new business modelsSupport M&A diligence and integration as neededWhat Success Looks LikeA streamlined, scalable, tech-enabled accounting functionFaster close cycles with improved reporting qualityStrong, trusted financial insights for leadership and investorsA modern finance team positioned to scale with the businessQualifications:RequiredExperience building or optimizing outsourced, automated, or tech-enabled finance functionsStrong understanding of automation, data, and AI applications in accountingBackground in private equity-backed or high-growth environmentsHigh intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and problem-solving capabilityPreferredExperience with client billing / revenue cycle environments (e.g., media, agency, services)Exposure to digital, media, or technology-enabled business modelsExperience with complex revenue streams and finance transformation initiativesEducation & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Accounting or related fieldCPA or equivalent preferred10+ years of progressive accounting/controllership experience