Controller

Job Description

Job Description

A top client is hiring its first dedicated Controller, ideally located in Madison, WI. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for building, managing, and scaling the company’s accounting function. As the Controller, you will own the general ledger, monthly close, financial reporting, internal controls, AP/AR oversight, cash management, and coordination of audit and tax activities while establishing processes, systems, and a growing team. You will play a critical role in scaling the organization’s financial infrastructure, ensuring accuracy and integrity in all accounting activities, and partnering with the CFO and leadership team to support the company's strategic growth objectives.

This role is well-suited for a technically strong accounting leader who is comfortable in a build-from-scratch environment and excited to help shape a best-in-class finance organization.

As the Controller, you will have responsibility for:

Accounting Operations & Financial Reporting

·       Own the full month-end and year-end close process

·       Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP

·       Maintain the general ledger and ensure accuracy of subledgers

·       Manage AP/AR, bank reconciliations, and cash management

·       Establish and maintain robust accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls

Audit, Tax, and Compliance

·       Serve as primary liaison with external auditors and tax advisors

·       Lead the annual financial statement audit

·       Support tax compliance and related filings

·       Ensure compliance with lender and PE reporting requirements, including adjusted EBITDA and pro forma metrics

Accounting Operations Leadership

·       Lead and develop the accounting team, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development

·       Implement scalable processes and systems to support significant organizational growth

·       Lead cash management efforts, prepare cash forecasts, and partner with the CFO on all treasury-related activities

Systems, Process, and Scalability

·       Identify and execute process improvements and automation initiatives

·       Oversee fixed assets, depreciation, and related reconciliations

·       Develop best practices for journal entries and documentation

·       Ownership of the lease accounting software and ASC 842 compliance

Strategic Partnership

·       Partner with the CFO on budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis

·       Provide reporting and insights to support operational and strategic decision-making

·       Support potential acquisitions, integrations, and due diligence activities as growth evolves

To be successful in the role, you must possess:

·       Bachelor’s degree in accounting required; CPA strongly preferred

·       7–12 years of progressive accounting experience

·       Strong GAAP knowledge and financial reporting expertise

·       Experience leading month-end close processes in a growing organization

·       NetSuite or similar ERP experience preferred

·       Strong Excel and data modeling skills

·       Prior experience with private equity a plus

·       Ability to succeed in a hands-on, evolving environment; willingness to travel 10–20%. A hybrid schedule is offered.

Our client is a leading provider of utility locating and damage prevention services, generating approximately $100 million in annual revenue and serving critical infrastructure needs across the Midwest. The company was recently acquired by a private equity sponsor and is entering a period of accelerated growth and operational professionalization. They are building a dedicated finance and accounting function to support institutional investors, lenders, and future strategic initiatives.

Why Join Our Client:

·       Controller role with meaningful ownership and impact

·       Opportunity to build systems, processes, and a team from the ground up

·       Exposure to private equity sponsors and executive leadership

·       Company positioned for organic growth with future strategic expansion potential

·       Competitive compensation structure

If you feel that you are a strong fit for this opportunity, please apply today!