Overview
Instant Alliance, founded in 2001, is a nationally certified Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE-WBENC) and a leading human capital and recruitment firm based in Chicago, IL. With over 20 years of expertise, we deliver tailored staffing solutions across a diverse range of industries, with a specialized focus on the aviation and airline sectors. Our consultative approach, strengthened by extensive industry knowledge, ensures the acquisition of elite talent that propels companies forward and thrives in today’s competitive landscape.
Job Description:
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Controller to join our entrepreneurial organization. This role will report directly to the CEO and requires a strategic financial leader capable of driving process improvement and financial management throughout the company. The Controller will oversee financial policies, systems, and processes while managing treasury functions, internal controls, ongoing financial modeling, payroll, accounts receivable/payable, and annual budgeting. This position is pivotal in enhancing the finance function to support organizational growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Financial Leadership and Planning:
- Lead the creation, presentation, and monitoring of annual budgets, forecasts, and financial plans.
- Manage the preparation of accurate and timely monthly financial statements in compliance with U.S. GAAP, ensuring all books, records, and data are properly maintained.
- Oversee all internal accounting controls, including revenue recognition, cash flow forecasting, and adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Report financial performance to the Chief Financial Officer and Board of Directors, providing insights and recommendations for strategic initiatives.
- Cash Management and Treasury Functions:
- Oversee cash flow management, including cash forecasting, investment strategies, and treasury operations.
- Manage relationships with financial institutions, ensuring efficient cash management and liquidity.
- Process Improvement and Efficiency:
- Streamline and optimize financial operations to improve accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.
- Implement process improvements and automation to reduce costs and enhance financial reporting speed.
- Supervise cash management functions, including bank reconciliations, cash flow forecasting, and armored car service activities for approximately $17MM in cash held across 2,000 gaming terminals.
- Establish relationships with banks, insurance companies, and regulatory bodies to support business requirements and cash management strategies.
- Operational and Process Improvement:
- Drive the reorganization and streamlining of finance operations, implementing process improvements and enhancing financial controls.
- Collaborate with system developers to optimize cash reconciliation processes and scale operations effectively.
- Team Leadership and Development:
- Lead and manage a team of accounting staff, providing mentorship, guidance, and support for professional growth.
- Implement staff development programs aimed at enhancing the team’s financial acumen and operational efficiency.
- Payroll and Tax Administration:
- Manage payroll processing across multiple states, including year-end tasks such as W-2s and 1099s.
- File payroll tax returns and ensure compliance with relevant tax regulations.
- Strategic Analysis and Reporting:
- Monitor organizational performance against annual budgets and long-term plans, providing operational and financial data to inform executive decision-making.
- Analyze profitability metrics across business units, making recommendations to optimize costs and improve financial performance.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Experience: 10+ years of experience in accounting, finance, and operations with a strong background in cash management, financial analysis, and general ledger accounting.
- Technical Expertise: Proficient with accounting software (including QuickBooks Enterprise), Oracle ERP, Sage 50 Cloud, and advanced Excel skills; familiarity with financial modeling, U.S. GAAP, and SQL.
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor teams, drive process improvements, and build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
- Entrepreneurial Mindset: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with a hands-on approach to financial management and strategic thinking.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA preferred.
- Additional Skills: Expertise in benefit negotiation and implementation, audit and controls, and budget planning. Experience in the staffing industry is a plus.