Controller - Construction

This is a rare opportunity for a hands‑on accounting leader who wants to own something — not maintain it. A PE‑backed, multi‑entity trades and manufacturing platform is seeking a Controller who is ready to step into a high‑trust, high‑autonomy role with direct access to the CEO and a mandate to build the accounting function from the ground up. The organization is in active growth mode, pursuing acquisitions, transitioning to a new ERP, and implementing a structured operating system — meaning the right person walks in on day one with the ability to shape how finance runs as the business scales. For a technically sharp, decisive accounting professional who thrives in a fast‑moving environment and wants their work to matter, this is the seat. Responsibilities Own the full month‑end and year‑end close process across both operating entities, delivering accurate financial statements to executive leadership and external advisors. Manage all core accounting operations including general ledger, journal entries, reconciliations, AP, AR, cash management, and working capital. Administer WIP schedules and percentage‑of‑completion revenue recognition, reducing dependency on third‑party accounting support. Oversee multi‑entity financial consolidations, ensuring accuracy and auditability across the combined enterprise. Build and maintain KPI reporting, budgeting frameworks, and financial dashboards that give leadership reliable, forward‑looking visibility. Lead ERP platform evaluation and implementation, managing transition planning and operational continuity throughout the conversion. Apply job costing, inventory valuation, and manufacturing cost structures to support profitability analysis on the manufacturing entity. Design, document, and implement standardized accounting processes and internal controls, replacing informal workflows with scalable procedures. Manage and develop direct accounting staff, building team capacity in advance of future acquisitions. Support M&A due diligence with accurate financial data packages and reporting infrastructure capable of absorbing acquired entities. Integrate AI‑enabled finance tools and automation workflows to enhance the efficiency and scalability of the accounting function. Exercise independent judgment on day‑to‑day financial matters, briefing leadership on outcomes rather than escalating for direction. Qualifications Required Ten or more years of progressive accounting experience with demonstrated controller‑level responsibility, including full‑cycle general ledger ownership, financial close management, and multi‑entity accounting. Hands‑on expertise in WIP accounting and percentage‑of‑completion revenue recognition, ideally within construction, trades, agricultural services, or comparable project‑based industries. Proven proficiency in cost accounting disciplines, including job costing, inventory valuation, and manufacturing or field‑service cost structures. Demonstrated ability to operate as a decisive, autonomous accounting leader who independently surfaces conclusions and resolves tactical financial matters, reducing executive involvement in day‑to‑day accounting decisions. Experience managing financial consolidations across multiple legal entities or operating divisions. Proficiency in at least one enterprise‑grade ERP platform; direct experience with Sage, Acumatica, or Microsoft Dynamics is advantageous given the organization’s planned migration path. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a closely related discipline. Preferred Experience contributing to or leading an ERP system migration, including transition planning, data conversion, and post‑implementation stabilization. Familiarity with AI‑enabled finance workflows, including tools for financial reporting automation, PDF‑to‑data conversion, and Microsoft Copilot or equivalent AI productivity platforms. Background in HR administration or multi‑function operational roles within a small‑to‑mid‑size business environment. Exposure to the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) framework or comparable structured business operating models. Comfort operating in a fast‑paced, informal, trade‑driven culture where precision, urgency, and direct communication are expected standards. Process‑building orientation with a demonstrated capacity to design, document, and implement accounting controls and procedures in environments where formal infrastructure does not yet exist. Strong analytical and meticulous follow‑through, with an accuracy‑first mindset aligned to delivering reliable financial data that leadership can act on with confidence. Proactive problem‑solving disposition with the personal energy and forward‑thinking orientation to anticipate financial exposures and resolve them ahead of escalation. Exceptional communication skills with the confidence to engage in direct, outcome‑oriented dialogue with executive leadership, ownership, and external advisors. Competencies Comfort operating in a fast‑paced, informal, trade‑driven culture where precision, urgency, and direct communication are expected standards. Process‑building orientation with a demonstrated capacity to design, document, and implement accounting controls and procedures in environments where formal infrastructure does not yet exist. Strong analytical and meticulous follow‑through, with an accuracy‑first mindset aligned to delivering reliable financial data that leadership can act on with confidence. Proactive problem‑solving disposition with the personal energy and forward‑thinking orientation to anticipate financial exposures and resolve them ahead of escalation. Exceptional communication skills with the confidence to engage in direct, outcome‑oriented dialogue with executive leadership, ownership, and external advisors. #J-18808-Ljbffr