Controller

We are a growing, multi-location marketing agency building for our next phase of scale. As we continue to expand, we are investing in strong financial infrastructure, smarter systems, technology and automation implementation, and scalable financial + operational processes to support long-term growth. DCC Marketing is a full-service brand, marketing, advertising, and strategic communications agency that helps organizations turn complex challenges into clear strategies and measurable outcomes. Our expertise spans strategic communications, digital strategy, media buying, creative development, stakeholder engagement, and integrated campaign execution across public and private sectors. As a state nationally certified Women's Business Enterprise (WBENC) founded in 2000, we're building for our next phase of growth—investing in technology, scalable systems, and talented people who embrace innovation, technology, and continuous learning. If you're energized by growth and excited about the future of marketing, you'll fit right in at DCC. Why This Role Matters This position will play a foundational role in supporting the agency’s next stage of growth. The right person will help build financial systems and operational infrastructure that support the company for years to come. If you’re looking to simply “do accounting,” this is not the right fit. If you’re looking to help build and manage the financial engine of a growing business, we’d love to talk. About the Role Reporting directly to the President, the Controller will own the financial and compliance backbone of the organization. This role combines: Accounting leadership Business management Strategic financial partnership You will be responsible for both day-to-day financial execution and higher-level financial strategy. You must be comfortable rolling up your sleeves while also partnering with leadership on forecasting, growth planning, and financial decision-making. This role includes business management responsibilities tied to financial health and operational compliance, not just traditional accounting duties. This is a high-ownership position for someone who wants to help build and protect the financial engine of a growing business. Who You Are You are not looking for a narrow accounting role. You want to grow with a company long-term. Wearing multiple hats in a growing organization Building systems and improving processes Taking ownership instead of waiting for direction Working independently while partnering with leadership Seeing the direct impact of your work on the business Areas of Responsibility Manage banking relationships with financial institutions Full ownership of the general ledger and accounting operations (ie: balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements, etc) in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principals (GAAP) Bank Reconciliations; Month-end and year-end close processes Accounts payable and accounts receivable oversight; cash flow management Preparation of internal financial reports for leadership Ownership of QuickBooks Online; chart of accounts structure and reporting optimization Collaboration with external CPA and tax preparer Support annual tax preparation 2. Budgeting & Strategic Financial Planning Build development and maintenance in QuickBooks Online Monitor actual vs. budget performance; provide variance analysis and actionable insights Ongoing forecasting and financial modeling Support leadership in financial strategy, hiring decisions, and growth planning Monitor agency utilization and profitability, providing insights and recommendations to help leadership improve efficiency, resourcing, and margins Develop and maintain margin and rate models to support pricing decisions, revenue planning, and overall financial performance You will not simply report history - you will help shape financial direction. 3. Compliance, Risk & Regulatory Oversight Monitor tax law and regulatory changes affecting the business; identify potential tax credits or incentives Manage multi-state payroll and tax registrations Oversee business registrations and licensing requirements Own vendor onboarding including W-9 collection and review; manage annual 1099 preparation and filings Maintain organized, audit-ready documentation year-round; coordinate and manage external audits Establish and maintain financial policies, procedures, and internal controls This role serves as a proactive compliance steward - not just a reactive processor. 4. Payroll & HR Financial Administration Oversee payroll processing and compliance; maintain payroll records and confidentiality Work with payroll vendor to manage payroll tax filings and reporting Support benefits-related financial tracking and reporting Ensure multi-state payroll compliance Payroll experience is strongly preferred, but not required. 5. Insurance & Risk Management Own all business insurance policies (general liability, professional liability, cyber, workers’ comp, etc.) Manage renewals, quotes, and broker relationships Evaluate coverage as the company grows Maintain certificates of insurance for client and RFP needs 6. Business Management & Operational Infrastructure This role includes meaningful business management responsibilities, all tied to financial oversight and sustainable growth. Support administrative components of RFP responses Oversee maintenance of vendor contracts and financial terms Oversee subscription tracking and cost management Strengthen financial systems and operational processes; ensure scalable infrastructure as the agency grows You are helping build the internal engine of the company. 7. Confidentiality & Leadership Partnership Handle highly sensitive financial information with discretion Serve as a trusted partner to leadership Always exercise sound judgment and professionalism This position requires integrity and the ability to operate with high trust. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or equivalent experience 5+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience and/or business operations, including leading month-end/year-end close Strong working knowledge of financial reporting and forecasting Strong QuickBooks expertise, or equivalent (including budgeting functionality) Experience with payroll processing and compliance, preferred Understanding of multi-state tax and registration requirements Experience managing or coordinating audits Advanced Excel skills Bonus: Experience in a small or growth-stage company Experience in professional services or agency environment What Success Looks Like Financials are clean, accurate, and timely. Leadership has reliable reporting and forecasting. Compliance issues are anticipated, not discovered. Audits are smooth and well-organized. Financial systems and processes scale with growth. Risk is minimized and opportunities are identified. Benefits & Perks you’ll love Family-owned business Company-Paid Life & disability insurance 401K Paid Vacation, Sick & Holiday Time Salary Range $100,000 - $130,000 (Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity and location) Schedule & Location Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Decatur, IL or Chicago, IL - Hybrid Employment Type Full-time FLSA Status: exempt Physical Demands & Working Conditions The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made. Primarily sedentary role; regularly required to sit for extended periods Frequent use of computer, keyboard, and monitor Occasional lifting or carrying of materials up to 50 lbs Travel occasionally required DCC Marketing, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer To Apply Send cover letter & resume to View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr