Controller

Our partner is looking for a Controller in Stow, MA. Masters Academy International (MAI) is building something intentional. MAI is an innovative, growing academy focused on holistic student growth, durable skill development, and real-world preparation. Through wayfinding, mentorship, teamwork, and a commitment to making a difference, MAI equips students with the tools, confidence, and perspective they need to navigate what’s next — not just academically, but personally and professionally. As a startup organization, MAI is laying the operational foundation that will support this long‑term vision. At Masters Academy International, we’re building an environment where students grow through academics, athletics, mentorship, and real‑world experience. That kind of environment requires structure—but not the kind that slows people down or creates friction. The financial foundation you build should create clarity, trust, and momentum across the organization. You’ll own the day‑to‑day financial operations while shaping the systems, rhythms, and guardrails that allow a startup school to grow. This is hands‑on work with real influence: building processes, creating visibility, and helping leaders make better decisions. Success in this role looks like a team that trusts the numbers, understands them, and can move faster because of them. Responsibilities Own accounting operations (AP, AR, cash, general ledger) Maintain clean, reliable and accurate financial statements Oversee vendor setup, W‑9s, 1099s, and support payroll + expense workflows Support and partner with tax and treasury related projects and filings Lead month‑end close in a way that is disciplined and practical Ensure compliance and reporting requirements are met Design processes, controls, and workflows that fit a growing, evolving school—without reinventing what already works Spot gaps early and put simple, effective structure in place while aligning with broader systems and standards Navigate between what should be built locally (U.S.-specific needs) and where to leverage the parent company’s infrastructure and support Establish financial rhythms (close, reporting, visibility) that are consistent, scalable, and connected across both organizations Partner with leadership to make financials usable—not just accurate Support budgeting and forecasting as the Academy grows Qualifications Bring strong accounting experience with the ability to think beyond the transaction level Someone the team goes to—not because they have to, but because it’s helpful Have a solid grasp of GAAP and financial operations Notice details quickly and connect them to the bigger picture Are comfortable being hands‑on while also shaping how things should work long‑term Can work independently and alongside a small, growing team without layers of structure Communicate in a way that makes financial concepts accessible and actionable Enjoy being in an environment with students, positive energy, and movement Believe in what education, sports, and mentorship can do for someone’s life trajectory Preferred Qualifications Strong knowledge base with ERP systems (i.e. NetSuite a plus) and implementing practical workflows Experience building or improving accounting processes in environments that were still taking shapeli> Exposure to schools, athletics programs, nonprofits, or other mission‑driven organizations Comfort working in smaller teams where roles flex and priorities evolve A mindset of “figure it out and make it better” rather than “wait until it’s defined” Benefits Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage 401(k) with company match Paid Time Off (PTO), holidays, and disability insurance Professional development and training opportunities #J-18808-Ljbffr