Controller

Fransmart is a franchise development company specializing in identifying and scaling emerging restaurant and retail brands into national and global chains, with a track record of growing concepts like Five Guys, QDOBA, and The Halal Guys from a handful of units into powerhouse franchises. One of our newest, and fastest growing brands, HB Protein Smoothies is in full-scale national growth mode. We are preparing to launch 4 new corporate locations while scaling toward approximately 500 franchise units. POSITION SUMMARY We are seeking a strategic, hands-on Controller to join our leadership team as we scale from one corporate unit to 2–3 new corporate locations and a national network of approximately 500 franchise locations. This is a pivotal role for a finance and operations leader who not only excels in traditional controllership but also has the vision to build scalable systems for a large-scale franchise operation. You will serve as the primary architect of our financial infrastructure, HR processes, and board-level governance while overseeing outsourced legal, bookkeeping, and tax functions. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking professional who has “seen what a 500-unit chain looks like” and can help position the company for private equity due diligence, investment, and long-term growth. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Financial Leadership & Traditional Controller Duties Oversee all accounting operations, including month-end close, general ledger, financial reporting (monthly, quarterly, annual), budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and internal controls. Develop and Maintains scalable financial systems, processes, and reporting packages designed for a high-growth multi-unit franchisor. Prepare accurate, timely financial statements and variance analysis to support executive decision-making and board presentations. Ensure compliance with GAAP, regulatory requirements, and franchise-specific standards. Financial Reporting, Compliance & Board Support Manage all financial reporting and compliance obligations. Maintain organized board-level files, corporate records, governance systems, and prepare comprehensive board decks and supporting materials. Lead preparation for financial due diligence, audits, and private equity readiness initiatives. Own all human resources functions for the growing corporate team, including talent acquisition, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, benefits administration, payroll coordination (with outsourced support), and compliance with federal/state employment laws. Build scalable HR policies, systems, and culture that support rapid expansion. Oversight of Outsourced Functions Directly manage and oversee relationships with external providers for legal, bookkeeping, payroll, and tax services. Ensure seamless integration of outsourced work into internal reporting, compliance, and strategic planning. Strategic Scaling & PE Readiness Design and implement financial and operational processes that will support a 500+ unit franchise system. Partner with the executive team on growth initiatives, new corporate store openings, franchise sales support, royalty/fee structures, and long-term financial modeling. Identify and drive process improvements, technology implementations (ERP, franchise management systems), and internal controls to prepare the company for private equity investment or exit. QUALIFICATIONS Required Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA strongly preferred. 8+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, with at least 3–5 years in a Controller (or equivalent) role. Demonstrated experience in franchising, multi-unit operations (restaurant, retail, service, or hospitality preferred), or high-growth scaling companies. Hands-on experience preparing organizations for private equity due diligence, audits, or significant capital events. Strong working knowledge of HR principles and employment compliance in a growth-stage environment. Proven ability to manage outsourced service providers while maintaining internal ownership and accountability. Advanced proficiency in financial systems, Excel, and reporting tools; experience implementing scalable technology solutions a plus. Visionary mindset with the ability to think at both the tactical (day-to-day controllership) and strategic (500-unit chain) levels. Strongly Preferred Prior experience in a franchisor or franchisee environment with rapid unit growth. Familiarity with franchise royalty reporting, multi-state operations, and PE-backed company metrics. MBA or advanced degree a plus. COMPENSATION Base Salary: $125,000 – $175,000 annually (depending on experience, franchise background, CPA credentials, and demonstrated PE-readiness/scaling expertise). Total Cash Compensation: Typically includes performance-based bonus of 20–35% of base. Additional Incentives: Competitive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO), potential equity participation or long-term incentive plan tied to company growth/PE milestones, and relocation assistance if needed. This range is informed by 2026 market data for Controllers and Corporate Controllers in the Phoenix/Scottsdale metro area, adjusted upward for franchise/multi-unit growth companies and PE-preparation roles nationally. Actual offer will be based on candidate qualifications and market conditions. If you are a results-driven finance leader who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and wants to help build the financial backbone of the next major franchise success story, we encourage you to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Fransmart