Financial Controller (Chicago)

Financial Controller

Location: Chicago, IL Area

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller to oversee financial operations, reporting, and compliance within a project-based business environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project financial management, forecasting, and accounting, preferably within a global organization.

This role requires someone who is comfortable working across international teams and can effectively manage financial processes across multiple entities. Strong SAP experience, advanced Excel skills, and a hands-on approach to financial operations are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting and financial operations, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Manage the monthly close process, including reconciliations, journal entries, accruals, and financial statement preparation.
• Develop and maintain project-based budgets, forecasts, and financial performance reports.
• Monitor project profitability, costs, revenue recognition, and financial performance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage intercompany transactions, reconciliations, and financial consolidations across multiple entities.
• Ensure compliance with applicable tax regulations, including tax filings, reporting, and coordination with external tax advisors.
• Oversee cash management activities, including cash flow forecasting, liquidity planning, and working capital management.
• Utilize SAP for financial reporting, accounting processes, and data analysis.
• Partner closely with finance and operational teams in Europe to ensure accurate reporting, alignment, and effective communication across international operations.
• Prepare consolidated financial statements and support group-level reporting requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, internal controls, and reporting efficiencies.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to leadership to support strategic business decisions.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Proven experience in a Financial Controller, Accounting Manager, or similar senior finance role.
• Experience working in a project-based environment , preferably within engineering, construction, manufacturing, industrial services, or a similar industry.
• SAP experience required , including financial reporting and accounting functions.
• Strong knowledge of tax compliance, tax filings, and financial reporting requirements.
• Experience managing monthly close processes, financial consolidations, and intercompany transactions.
• Demonstrated experience with project-based forecasting, budgeting, and financial analysis.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including financial modeling and reporting.
• Strong understanding of cash management, cash flow forecasting, and working capital.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and international teams.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working within a multinational or global organization, particularly with European finance teams.
• Familiarity with international accounting practices and multi-entity financial reporting.
• Experience with foreign currency transactions and international consolidations.
• CPA, CMA, or equivalent professional certification.
• Background in project accounting, cost analysis, and long-term project forecasting.