Controller

Position SummaryThe Controller serves as the senior accounting leader of the agency, owning the integrity of financial records, the accuracy of client billing, and the efficiency of day-to-day accounting operations. Reporting to the CFO, this role partners closely with agency leadership to support strategic financial decisions while ensuring full compliance with GAAP, federal regulations, and Virginia state law. The ideal candidate brings agency or professional-services experience and thrives in a fast-moving creative environment.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Close & ReportingOwn the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process; deliver timely and accurate financial statements to the CFO and timely submission to corporate accounting for consolidation.Maintain the general ledger and chart of accounts; ensure all entries are properly documented and reconciledPrepare and review balance sheet reconciliations, variance analyses, and management reportsSupport the CFO in preparation of board-level financial packages and forecastsClient Billing & Project AccountingOversee agency billing cycles, ensuring revenue is recognized in accordance with contract termsPartner with account and project management teams to track project budgets, fee burn, and profitability by client and engagementManage work-in-progress (WIP) and unbilled receivables; escalate collection issues proactivelyMaintain accurate cost tracking for time, vendor pass-throughs, and production expensesAccounts Payable & ReceivableSupervise AP and AR functions; ensure vendors and subcontractors are paid accurately and on timeMonitor aging reports and manage client collections in collaboration with account teamsReview and approve expense reports in accordance with agency policyCoordinate annual 1099 filings in accordance with IRS guidelinesPayroll & ComplianceOversee semi-monthly or bi-weekly payroll processing in coordination with HR; ensure accuracy and timely deliveryMaintain compliance with all federal, Virginia, and local payroll tax requirements, including Forms W-2, 940, 941, and VA-6 delete thisPartner with HR on benefits reconciliation, 401(k) contributions, and year-end reportingTreasury & Cash ManagementMonitor daily cash position and prepare rolling cash flow forecastsManage bank relationships, account reconciliations, and wire/ACH authorization processesRecommend and implement cash management improvementsBudgeting & Forecasting SupportAssist the CFO in the annual budgeting process; coordinate submissions from department headsMaintain budget-vs-actual reporting and provide actionable variance commentaryModel scenarios to support new business pricing and strategic planningAudit, Tax & Internal ControlsServe as liaison for external auditors and tax advisors; coordinate year-end audit and tax filingsEnsure timely preparation of all federal, state, and local tax filings, including Virginia corporate income taxDesign, implement, and maintain internal controls appropriate for a 60-person agencyIdentify control gaps and recommend process improvementsSystems & Team LeadershipManage and develop accounting staff (AP/AR coordinator, staff accountant, or similar depending on org structure)Serve as the functional administrator for accounting; lead system improvements and integrations with project management toolsChampion automation and process efficiency across financial operationsQualificationsRequiredBachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a Controller or senior accounting roleDemonstrated experience in a professional services, agency, or project-based billing environmentExperience managing payroll, tax compliance, and year-end audit processesProficiency with accounting software (NetSuite, QuickBooks Online, or comparable ERP)Strong analytical skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracyEffective communicator—able to translate financial data for non-finance audiencesPreferredExperience in a creative, marketing, or media agencyFamiliarity with project management platformsCPA license or active CPA candidacy strongly preferredEqual Employment OpportunityWhite64 is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or Virginia law, including the Virginia Human Rights Act (Va. Code § 2.2-3900 et seq.). We are committed to a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination and harassment.