Controller

Our client is seeking a strategic, hands-on finance leader to oversee the financial management of two privately held businesses operating in distinct industries. This position reports to an entrepreneurial CEO looking for a trusted advisor capable of building scalable processes for expansion. This role serves as the Vice President of Finance for wireless phone authorized retailer operating throughout New York area while simultaneously serving as the Controller for a multi-unit QSR franchise organization operating restaurants across Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable developing long-term financial strategy as they are ensuring operational excellence in accounting, financial reporting, cash management, compliance, and internal controls. This individual will partner directly with the CEO to support growth initiatives, improve profitability, strengthen financial processes, and provide meaningful business insights across both organizations. Responsibilities: Strategic Financial Leadership Serve as the senior finance leader and trusted advisor to the CEO. Develop and execute financial strategies that support growth, profitability, and long-term business objectives. Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range financial planning. Prepare financial models and business analyses to support strategic initiatives, acquisitions, and capital investments. Identify opportunities to improve profitability, operating efficiency, and working capital. Develop meaningful KPI dashboards and executive reporting. Analyze financial performance, trends, margins, labor, operating costs, and key business drivers. Deliver timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting with actionable insights. Perform variance analyses and recommend corrective actions. Monitor cash flow and liquidity across both organizations. Develop rolling cash flow forecasts and capital expenditure planning. Accounting & Financial Operations Oversee all accounting operations, including: Accounts Payable Accounts Receivable Payroll Fixed Assets Bank Reconciliations Ensure accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies. Oversee consolidated financial reporting and multi-entity accounting. Treasury, Banking & Risk Management Manage banking relationships and financing activities. Coordinate loan compliance and bank covenant reporting. Evaluate financing alternatives and capital requirements. Oversee cash management and liquidity planning. Manage corporate insurance programs and risk management initiatives. Tax, Compliance & Audit Coordinate all activities with external CPA firms. Ensure timely completion of corporate tax filings and supporting schedules. Oversee sales tax, payroll tax, and regulatory filings. Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local reporting requirements. Coordinate annual audits and lender reporting requirements. Systems & Process Improvement Evaluate and improve accounting systems, financial reporting, and internal processes. Lead automation initiatives that improve efficiency and reporting accuracy. Develop standardized financial policies and procedures. Improve operational reporting across multiple business units and locations. Leadership Lead and mentor the accounting team across both organizations. Establish performance expectations and accountability. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional development. Build the finance organization to support future business growth. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required. CPA strongly preferred. 10+ years of progressive finance and accounting leadership experience. Experience leading finance within privately held, multi-location organizations. Strong understanding of GAAP, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls. Experience managing banking relationships, cash flow, and financing activities. Proven ability to translate financial data into strategic business recommendations. Exceptional analytical, leadership, and communication skills. Advanced Excel and financial systems proficiency; ERP experience preferred. Preferred Experience Retail, telecommunications, restaurant, franchise, or other multi-location operating environments. Experience working directly with owners or founder-led businesses. Experience overseeing multiple legal entities. #J-18808-Ljbffr