Controller - Forge Management, Seattle

Job Description

Job Description

Controller

BUSINESS SUCCESS DIVISION

Forge Management is the startup management division of a vertically aligned development organization based in Seattle and serving multiple states. Our human-centered, proactive response to leading indicators maximizes value and performance. Through creative innovation, strong brand reputation, and exceptional community experiences, we build dynamic communities where stories thrive and value is maximized

We're seeking a financial guardian and systems expert who can ensure impeccable financial integrity across our operations. As our Controller, you'll deliver the audit-ready financials and GAAP-aligned reporting that our institutional clients expect, while building financial systems that scale with our growth across a multi-state, mixed-use multifamily portfolio.

Forge is a startup that will require three phases of expertise from a Controller. During the startup phase, you'll build a system from scratch on the Entrata and QuickBooks platforms. During the onboarding phase, you'll start building a team while processing day-to-day GL accounting as well as processing payroll. During the stabilization phase, you'll deliver consistent, accurate, and timely financials while contributing data for analysis.

In this role, you'll blend precision with innovation:

• Clear, Responsive Communication : Interact with internal and external clients, instilling confidence in all stakeholders through knowledge and expertise, portraying a solutions-oriented attitude.
• Ledger Integrity : Maintain meticulous general ledger systems and accounting controls that ensure financial accuracy and transparency.
• Financial Reporting : Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements that meet or exceed GAAP standards and client expectations.
• Controls Leadership : Build and monitor internal control framework.
• Account Reconciliation : Oversee the alignment of bank accounts, balance sheets, and trust accounts with exacting attention to detail.
• Payment Systems : Manage accounts payable and receivable workflows, maximizing the potential of Entrata's Procure-to-Pay and Payments AI systems.
• Payroll Processing : Work with People Success division to process payroll in a consistent, timely fashion with minimal errors.
• Process Enhancement : Drive continuous improvement in financial operations, identifying opportunities to increase both accuracy and efficiency.
• Client Financial Integration : Support seamless client onboarding through thoughtful configuration of charts of accounts and reporting protocols.
• Team Development : Train and mentor accounting staff to foster a culture of accountability and excellence.

• Timeliness and accuracy of monthly close, financial statement delivery, and payroll
• Utilization and efficiency of automated payment systems
• Error rate in reconciliations and financial reports
• Client satisfaction with financial services and transparency
• Audit performance metrics: adjustments, resolution time, auditor feedback

You're a detail-oriented financial leader with an active CPA license and deep knowledge of GAAP principles. Your experience in real estate or property management accounting (7+ years) has given you insight into the unique financial dynamics of our industry. Ideally, you excel at Entrata accounting systems and bring a continuous improvement mindset to financial processes.

• Base Salary : $160,000-$180,000/year, paid semi-monthly
• Bonus Structure : 8% performance bonus available, subject to the terms of the company's bonus program, which may be amended from time to time
• Reports to : Director of Business Success
• Direct Reports : Accountant II
• Location : Hybrid: In-office collaboration required

Perks & Benefits at Forge We believe people thrive when they’re supported—at work, at home, and in their communities. That’s why our benefits go beyond the basics to reflect what matters most:

Healthcare

• 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for you

Paid Time Off

• 20 days of PTO per year (accrued)
• 2 Service Days (1 Personal, 1 Community)
• 8 Paid Holidays + 2 Floating Holidays

Wellness

• Calm App membership for mental well-being
• Employee Assistance Program

Financial Security

• 401(k) with 100% employer match up to 4%
• $20,000 employer-paid Life Insurance

Communication Support

• $75 monthly cell phone stipend

Long-Term Growth

• 1 extra PTO day for each year of service (starting after 5 years)
• 30-day Sabbatical after 10 years with Forge

Benefits are subject to change throughout employment

Connection to Our Mission

Your role embodies our commitment to being focused and responsive. Through detailed and timely financial management, you create the transparency and stability that allow communities to flourish. Your work ensures the financial foundation is solid, allowing everyone—from owners to residents—to focus on creating and living their most vivid stories.

About Forge Management

We’re a new kind of property management company—built on decades of industry experience, but designed for today’s challenges. Our team brings together seasoned professionals from multifamily operations, compliance, and HR, united by a bold vision: to centralize core functions and empower on-site teams. By streamlining systems and standardizing support, we reduce friction, boost transparency, and create space for what matters most—resident satisfaction, employee growth, and operational excellence.