Controller
- Direct Hire
- Location
- St Louis, United States
Controller
Position Overview: We are seeking a strategic and client-focused Controller to provide financial leadership, accounting oversight, and advisory support for a portfolio of clients. This is not a traditional in-house Controller role. Instead, this position combines accounting expertise, financial strategy, client relationship management, and team leadership within a collaborative professional services environment.
The ideal candidate enjoys working with a variety of organizations, partnering directly with decision-makers, and delivering meaningful financial insights. This role is well suited for someone with a public accounting, advisory, or outsourced accounting background who is seeking a dynamic leadership position with strong work-life balance.
Key Responsibilities
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Serve as a trusted financial advisor to a portfolio of clients, providing guidance on accounting, reporting, and financial management.
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Review and analyze financial statements, budgets, forecasts, and cash flow reports to identify trends and support strategic decision-making.
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Build and maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication and consultative support.
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Present financial results and recommendations to business leaders and key stakeholders.
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Lead, mentor, and develop accounting professionals to ensure high-quality service delivery and professional growth.
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Oversee financial reporting processes, month-end close activities, account reconciliations, and audit preparation.
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Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, strengthen internal controls, and enhance operational efficiency.
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Collaborate with internal teams to solve complex accounting challenges and implement best practices.
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Support client onboarding, process improvements, and special financial projects.
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Participate in talent development, hiring, training, and performance management initiatives.
Qualifications
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Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
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Progressive experience in accounting, audit, advisory, outsourced accounting, or financial leadership roles.
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Previous experience leading and developing accounting professionals.
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Strong understanding of financial reporting, general ledger accounting, and accounting principles.
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Experience preparing or reviewing budgets, forecasts, and financial analyses.
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CPA designation preferred.
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Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy and client service.
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Collaborative leadership style with a commitment to professional excellence and continuous improvement.