Controller

As a key hire, the Controller will be responsible for the overall direction of the global accounting operations.  The Controller will be primarily responsible for all day-to-day accounting operations and systems.  Responsibilities include management of all phases of the corporate accounting and internal and external reporting, general ledger, monthly close, issuance of monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements, provision of financial analysis and review and improvement of financial policies, processes, procedures and systems.  This position reports to the CFO and will have extensive interaction with the senior leadership of the company.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual closing processes with full financial transparency. Oversee the operations of the accounting department, including the general ledger, balance sheet, and fixed assets. Establish and maintain system interfaces to the consolidation system and report consolidated results. Record corporate activity and maintain corporate ledgers.
• Develop and implement effective accounting policies and processes. Drive best practices and standardization where appropriate to ensure that required recording, analysis and reporting of financial information is clear and consistent, and available at all levels of the Company on a timely and accurate basis.
• Lead and implement change initiatives related to the accounting operations for the Company, including business processes, technologies, organizational structure, job roles and systems.
• Build, develop and lead a strong accounting function with competent and committed staff. Manage direct reports and grow finance team as warranted. Ensure the efficient day-to-day operation of the accounting and finance functions through direct supervision and overall goal setting for the department.
• Develop an effective system of internal controls, procedures and policies, and document and test key processes and dependencies.   Maintain comprehensive documentation in support of accounting positions and conclusions.
• Coordinate and review all periodic financial reporting for the Company, including the preparation and filing of financial statements, registrations and other compliance filings. Ensure financial statements are in compliance with GAAP and IFRS requirements, as applicable. Perform or direct all accounting and technical compliance research related to external filings, ensuring the Company is aware of, and in compliance with, the latest reporting requirements. Knowledge of key areas of revenue recognition accounting issues including software and licensing revenue reporting standards.
• Develop and prepare internal reporting packages to facilitate review of the financial statements with key constituents, including the management team, and the Audit Committee. Provide updates to the constituents regarding significant changes to accounting principles and policies.
• Oversee and manage the tax function. Will collaborate with the company’s external tax experts on relevant tax planning, reporting and tax compliance requirements.
• Lead the relationship and interactions with external auditors. Work closely with the external auditors on all issues that require disclosure.
• Establish strong internal and external customer relationships as well as working relationships with team members within and outside of the department to ensure the success of major projects.
• Present information and recommendations, often in a group setting or to senior management, influencing Company policy, practice or strategic direction. Measure and report on all areas of responsibility, including executive reporting.
• Lead, manage, and develop a high performing global controllership organization, driving operational efficiency, optimization, setting goals and development plans and fostering an environment to achieve those goals through ongoing feedback
• Assist with special project as necessary or as assigned
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Candidate Requirements: 

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related business field and a CPA are desired.  MBA is preferred.
• 15+ years of experience, including 5 years of management experience (Controller level or equivalent preferred). Background in big 4 public accounting environment is preferred.
• Background working in a service oriented or distribution industry, within a high volume/low margin transaction environment, is preferred.
• Change management experience desired with the ability to assess and improve day to day accounting operations and systems.
• Previous responsibility for technical financial reporting is required, including extensive knowledge of GAAP, IFRS, regulatory accounting and reporting requirements.
• Strong background in developing and implementing procedure, process and operational controls.
• Ability to interface and communicate effectively with corporate management and all other functions in the Company. Experience working with executive management, and audit committees.
• Strong computer skills including knowledge of computer financial applications, ERP packages, and Consolidation and Reporting Systems are preferred. Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent written and presentation skills coupled with strong interpersonal and team-building capabilities across different functional areas and cultures.