Controller

Job Description: Compensation: The expected salary range for this role is between $130,000 and $145,000, depending on experience and qualifications.Reason for Opening: Net New positionAI is used to screen, assess, or select applicants for this role.Controller - Carlson Marketing Solutions A highly skilled and detail-oriented Controller is sought to lead and execute day-to-day accounting and financial operations in a fast-paced, data-driven environment. This role requires a CPA with prior Big 4 public accounting experience, strong technical accounting expertise, and deep hands-on experience in daily accounting activities, reconciliations, and financial reporting. The ideal candidate is both strategic and operational - capable of overseeing financial controls and reporting while also rolling up their sleeves to manage daily accounting functions in a dynamic and evolving environment.Job ResponsibilitiesFinancial Leadership & OversightOwnership of all accounting operations including general ledger, month-end close, reconciliations, and financial reporting.Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.Assist with the preparation of financial forecasts and budgetsDevelop, implement, and maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies.Oversee compliance with GAAP and relevant regulatory requirements.Accounting & Reconciliation (Hands-On)Manage all day-to-day full cycle accounting functions including Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, invoicing, treasury, cash applications, general ledger maintenance, intercompany reconciliations, and system reconciliations.Reconcile various accounts and investigate discrepancies when identified and take action to correct these identified discrepancies.Perform and review complex balance sheet reconciliations, including intercompany, accruals, deferred revenue, and revenue recognitionLead/own the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close process with strict adherence to deadlines.Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules, including large-volume and complex data reconciliations.Perform and review large-volume, complex reconciliations, including bank, balance sheet, and clearing accountsInvestigate and resolve discrepancies across financial systems and sub-ledgers.Ensure integrity of financial data through detailed account analysis and documentation.Treasury & Cash ManagementOversee daily cash activity, bank reconciliations, and treasury operations.Forecast cash requirements and monitor working capital.Maintain relationships with banking partners and ensure appropriate controls over cash flows.Leadership & Team ManagementLead, mentor, and develop a team of direct reports, fostering accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.Allocate workloads, set performance expectations, and conduct regular performance reviews.Build a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.Process Improvement & SystemsIdentify inefficiencies in current accounting processes and design scalable improvements.Partner with internal stakeholders to enhance systems, automation, and data flows.Support implementation and optimization of ERP, billing, and reporting tools.Strengthen internal controls and documentation as the organization scales.Stakeholder CollaborationAct as a key finance partner to Operations, Sales, and Technology teams.Support internal and external audits and respond to audit requests.Assist with tax filings and regulatory requirements.Prepare and analyze financial analysis and reporting to support management decision-making.Audit & ComplianceServe as primary liaison with internal & external auditors.Coordinate annual audits and ensure timely completion.Maintain audit-ready documentation and support schedules.Ensure compliance with tax and regulatory filings in coordination with advisors.Process Improvement & SystemsAssess and enhance accounting workflows, automation, and financial systems.Implement best practices to streamline reconciliation and reporting processes.Support ERP optimization and financial system integrations where applicable.Strategic & Cross-Functional SupportPartner with leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.Provide financial insights to support operational decision-making.Assist in evaluating business initiatives, contracts, and vendor agreements.QualificationsRequiredCPA designation (active license required).Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).Professional accounting designation (CPA) required.8–12+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience.Big 4 public accounting experience (audit or advisory).Strong expertise in GAAP and financial reporting.Extensive hands-on reconciliation experience.Proven experience managing month-end close in a complex environment.Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment.PreferredExperience in loyalty, marketing services, SaaS, or data-driven busin