Contract Controller (8571)
- Contract
- Location
- St. Louis, Missouri, United States
Controller
Position Summary: Our client is seeking an experienced Controller to lead the accounting function and oversee the preparation, accuracy, and integrity of GAAP-compliant financial statements. This role is ideal for a hands-on accounting leader with strong technical accounting expertise, experience managing the close process, and a proven ability to support audits, compliance, and organizational growth.
The Controller will partner closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure sound financial stewardship, implement accounting best practices, strengthen internal controls, and drive continuous process improvements. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented professional who thrives in dynamic environments, exercises strong judgment, and effectively leads accounting teams.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting & Financial Close Management
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Own and manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process.
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Ensure timely, accurate, and complete financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
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Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
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Maintain and enforce a disciplined close calendar and reporting deadlines.
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Oversee multi-entity accounting activities and intercompany transactions.
Technical Accounting & Financial Reporting
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Serve as the primary authority on GAAP, accounting policies, and technical accounting matters.
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Research, document, and implement accounting treatment for complex transactions including:
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Mergers and acquisitions
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Equity transactions
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Intercompany activities
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Lease accounting
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Revenue recognition
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Evaluate and prepare technical accounting position papers under GAAP and/or IFRS.
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Maintain accounting policies, procedures, and documentation.
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Lead implementation of new accounting standards and pronouncement transitions, including lease accounting, revenue recognition, CECL, and related standards.
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Support public-company readiness initiatives and SEC reporting requirements when applicable.
Audit, Tax & Compliance
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Lead all external audits, reviews, and examinations.
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Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and tax advisors.
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Manage audit planning, prepared-by-client (PBC) requests, issue resolution, and final deliverables.
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Coordinate income tax, sales and use tax, payroll tax, and other compliance filings with external advisors.
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Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, regulations, and company policies.
Internal Controls & Risk Management
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Design, implement, and maintain effective internal controls.
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Assess financial and operational risks and develop mitigation strategies.
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Monitor control effectiveness and recommend enhancements.
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Ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
Systems & Process Improvement
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Oversee the accounting system of record and related subledgers.
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Ensure system configurations support GAAP compliance and scalable operations.
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Partner with Finance, Operations, and IT teams to maintain data integrity and improve reporting capabilities.
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Drive process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and transparency.
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Evaluate, organize, summarize, and interpret accounting and operational data to support decision-making.
Leadership & Team Development
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Lead and mentor accounting personnel, establishing clear expectations and accountability.
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Review work products and provide coaching to support professional growth.
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Develop and maintain effective staffing structures, responsibilities, and workflows.
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Foster a collaborative team culture centered on communication, development, and continuous improvement.
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Support technical accounting training and professional development initiatives.
Strategic Partnership & Communication
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Partner with executive leadership on accounting implications of strategic initiatives.
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Collaborate with FP&A, Operations, and other departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and data consistency.
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Clearly communicate accounting conclusions, risks, and recommendations to leadership.
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Build and maintain strong professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Qualifications
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Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
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Active CPA license required.
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Minimum of 7 years of progressive accounting experience.
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Public accounting experience strongly preferred.
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Extensive knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and technical accounting.
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Demonstrated ownership of month-end close processes and external audits.
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Experience with multi-entity and intercompany accounting.
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ERP system experience (NetSuite preferred or equivalent platform).
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Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.
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Proven experience leading and developing accounting professionals.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
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Knowledge of tax compliance and reporting requirements.