Assistant Controller

HGA is seeking an Assistant Controller to support operations in Ruston, LA. The Assistant Controller reports to the Controller and supports the Accounting function across financial reporting, general ledger operations, internal controls, external audit coordination, and selected finance operations. The role combines traditional accounting work with ownership of finance operations including insurance, fixed assets, and lease accounting. It is positioned for expanded leadership responsibility within the Accounting function over time. The role requires someone who can work independently with minimal direction, commensurate with the experience level and compensation of the position. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting and Close Process • Prepare general ledger entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules. • Support the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close process. • Assist with consolidation and the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. • Perform account analysis and investigate variances to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data. • Identify opportunities to improve the efficiency and accuracy of close and reporting processes. Internal Controls and Compliance • Maintain, monitor, and strengthen internal controls over financial reporting. • Apply U.S. GAAP to day-to-day accounting activities and research technical accounting issues as they arise. • Document and update accounting policies and procedures. • Support compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements. External Audit Coordination • Serve as the primary internal point of contact for the external accounting firm during the annual review, valuation, and other engagements. • Prepare workpapers, schedules, and supporting documentation. • Coordinate information requests and resolve inquiries in a timely manner. Finance Operations • Insurance: Coordinate the annual insurance renewal process in collaboration with the CFO and Controller. Review, verify, and allocate insurance invoices. Administer certificates of insurance (COI) issuance and tracking. Support workers' compensation, liability, property, and other insurance audits. • Fixed Assets: Maintain the fixed asset register, including additions, transfers, and disposals. Calculate and record monthly depreciation. Reconcile the fixed asset sub-ledger to the general ledger. Prepare fixed asset schedules for financial statements and tax filings. • Lease Accounting: Maintain a complete inventory of real estate and personal property leases. Prepare and post monthly lease accounting entries in accordance with ASC 842. Reconcile right-of-use assets and lease liabilities to the general ledger. Support lease renewal review. • Tax Coordination: Serve as the internal liaison with the external tax firm for income tax, sales and use tax, and related filings. Compile and provide the information required for return preparation and quarterly estimates. Support the timely remittance of federal, state, and local tax payments. Leadership and Collaboration • Partner with team members across Finance and Accounting on process improvement initiatives. • Build broad working knowledge of HGA's accounting operations. • Develop the capability and readiness to take on expanded accounting leadership responsibilities over time. Required Qualifications• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance is required. • Master's degree in Accounting or Finance is a plus. • Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in accounting or finance; seven or more preferred. • Experience in medium-to-large organizations preferred. • Experience with advanced financial systems and emerging technologies, including ERP, consolidation, lease accounting, and fixed asset systems. • Experience with recent versions of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) required. • Experience coordinating with external auditors and tax preparers preferred. • Strong working knowledge of U.S. GAAP, including application to professional services or construction accounting. • Ability to perform accurate and timely work independently and with minimal direction. • Strong analytical, reconciliation, and problem-solving skills. • Detail-oriented and deadline-driven. • Able to manage competing priorities and deadlines efficiently. • Clear, professional, and concise written and verbal communication. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, vendors, auditors, and external partners. • Capability and willingness to learn, understand, and apply new processes and technologies. • Maintains confidentiality of sensitive employee, financial, and business information Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled