Controller

Chesapeake Search Partners; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized recruitment firm is seeking a Controller to lead all accounting operations in a high-growth environment in Baltimore, Maryland. This role involves managing financial functions, ensuring compliance with GAAP, and supporting budgeting and reporting efforts. The ideal candidate has over 6 years of accounting experience and comes from a private equity-backed background, making them comfortable in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of progressive accounting experience, ideally in a standalone or small team role.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, internal controls, and financial statement preparation.
• Experience in private equity-backed companies preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage all accounting operations including general ledger and cash management.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes for accurate reporting.
• Prepare management reports and dashboards for CFO and stakeholders.

Skills

Accounting

Financial Reporting

GAAP Compliance

Excel

Internal Controls

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

Cloud-based accounting systems

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Controller to lead all accounting operations in a lean, high-growth environment. As the sole accounting professional in the organization, you will be responsible for managing the full range of financial functions, including month-end close, reporting, compliance, and process development. This position reports directly to the CFO and is critical to supporting the company's financial infrastructure during its growth under private equity ownership.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in an entrepreneurial setting, enjoys building systems and processes, and is comfortable owning both strategic and tactical finance responsibilities.

Title

Controller

Base pay range

$160,000.00/yr - $200,000.00/yr

This range is provided by Chesapeake Search Partners. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all accounting operations, including general ledger, journal entries, account reconciliations, accounts payable/receivable, and cash management.
• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Prepare internal financial statements, management reports, and dashboards for the CFO and investors.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis efforts alongside the CFO.
• Ensure compliance with US GAAP and maintain robust internal controls and documentation.
• Oversee tax compliance and coordinate with external tax advisors and auditors.
• Maintain and improve accounting policies, processes, and systems as the company scales.
• Liaise with third-party service providers (e.g., payroll, audit, benefits administrators).
• Support financial diligence and reporting needs related to the company’s private equity stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline.
• 6+ years of progressive accounting experience, ideally in a standalone or small-team role.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, internal controls, and financial statement preparation.
• Experience in a private equity-backed, high-growth, or entrepreneurial company is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Excel and cloud-based accounting systems.
• High level of accountability, integrity, and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines independently.

Preferred Attributes

• CPA certification (active or inactive) is preferred.
• Experience implementing or upgrading accounting systems and scaling finance functions.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, evolving environment with shifting priorities.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Accounting/Auditing and Finance

Industries

• Manufacturing