Controller

Are you energized by working cross-functionally with ownership and operations to solve problems and drive results? Do you bring a mindset of ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement? Do you take pride in building scalable processes and strong controls that enable long-term success? ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Zalla Companies is a long-established real estate investment and operating firm with more than 50 years of history. They own and manage a diversified portfolio of commercial real estate assets, including office, industrial, retail, and medical offices, complemented by a growing portfolio of liquid securities and private investments. The organization is shifting to a simpler operating model focused on overseeing its real estate assets and financial resources for the future. This role is onsite at the office in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky and requires sound judgment, high discretion, and a genuine commitment to service, structure, and continuous improvement. WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING The Controller is the senior financial leader responsible for all accounting, financial reporting, and administrative functions across a multi-entity platform. Reporting directly to the CEO, this individual leads a small internal team and serves as a trusted financial partner for ownership, overseeing both company operations and ownership-related financial matters. The role includes responsibility for trust administration, investment reporting, tax coordination, and managing relationships with external legal, tax, and investment advisors. This individual will ensure discipline, transparency, and clarity across a diversified portfolio of real estate, investment, and ownership assets while providing exceptional service and stewardship to ownership. The Controller’s responsibilities include: Accounting, Financial Reporting, and Tax Manage accounting for a diversified portfolio of commercial real estate assets including office, industrial, retail, and medical offices Oversee cash flow, banking relationships, and payroll and benefits administration Develop and maintain site-level financial reporting, including profitability, utilization metrics, and operational KPIs Prepare tax-based financial statements and management reports across real estate and investment entities Provide clear, timely financial insights and serve as the primary financial resource for the CEO Coordinate tax return preparation, supporting schedules, and external accounting relationships Lead and develop a team of two direct reports Real Estate and Investment Oversight Monitor operating cash flow, common area maintenance (CAM) reconciliations, and portfolio performance across entities Maintain records of all the tenant improvements, building improvements, leasing commissions, and other capital renovations Lead annual operating budget process and forecasting activities Track and report on liquid securities and private investment activity Coordinate with property managers, fiduciaries, and financial advisors to ensure accurate, timely reporting Ownership & Trust Financial Administration Develop and maintain reporting for trust expenses, distributions, and investment activity ensuring clarity and consistency for stakeholders and advisors Serve as the primary financial coordinator for ownership’s personal and trust-related matters Coordinate owner and trust tax preparation, review, and timely payments Manage information flow with external legal, tax, and investment advisors Operations & Systems Use MRI Software and Sage Accounting to streamline processes, improve reporting, and increase financial transparency Identify and implement process improvements Build and sustain scalable financial workflows Lead and oversee HR, IT, and general administrative functions Ensure policies, processes, and systems support operational efficiency, scalability, and compliance Own the annual insurance renewal process for relevant insurance classes including property, benefits, and workers compensation Manage benefit brokers, plans, renewals, and premiums IDEAL CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree in accounting; CPA or master’s in taxation preferred 8+ years of progressive accounting experience; experience in construction, real estate development, or project accounting environments is a plus Proven ability to lead and develop teams and build strong cross-functional relationships Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate financial information for non-financial stakeholders Technology acumen, including experience with ERP systems and advanced financial tools; strong Excel/data analysis skills required KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and the ability to see the big picture while managing details High integrity and accountability, with a commitment to ethical leadership and stewardship Results-oriented, with a bias toward action and continuous improvement Collaborative and relationship-driven, with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic and evolving environment THE PAYOFF Strategic partnership with leadership and operations to shape the future of the organization. Collaborative, value-driven culture with a strong sense of purpose. Competitive compensation package, including base salary and comprehensive benefits. OUR COMMITMENT TO CANDIDATES Gilman Partners is committed to strengthening leadership teams and elevating talent in our communities—and that means all qualified applicants will receive consideration. You do not have to meet every qualification in this job description to apply. If you are drawn to the position and believe your experience makes you a good fit, we encourage you to reach out. #J-18808-Ljbffr