Controller

The Keller Group; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A private equity firm in Phoenix seeks a hands-on Controller to lead core accounting operations and optimize processes. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of accounting experience, with a preference for those who have worked in private equity settings. Responsibilities include establishing accounting processes, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and managing audit readiness. This role demands a strategic leader who can thrive in a growth environment and communicate effectively across functions.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• 3+ years of senior‑level people management.
• Private equity–backed company experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Establish and improve accounting processes and internal controls.
• Maintain audit readiness and coordinate external audit activities.
• Oversee tax reporting compliance and debt covenant compliance.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial process improvement

Compliance and governance

Strong ERP experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Master’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

NetSuite

Job description

Company Type: Private equity–backed organization

Position Overview

We are seeking a forward-thinking, hands‑on Controller to lead core accounting operations and drive process excellence within a growing private equity–backed company. This role is heavily focused on process ownership, compliance, systems, and policy development, with limited day‑to‑day transactional accounting.

The Controller will serve as a strategic partner to leadership, ensuring strong financial controls, audit readiness, and scalable accounting infrastructure to support continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Leadership & Process Management

• Establish, document, and continuously improve accounting processes and internal controls
• Ensure consistent execution of policies and procedures across departments
• Lead financial reviews with department leaders to support informed decision‑making
• Maintain audit readiness and coordinate external audit activities
• Oversee tax reporting compliance and debt covenant compliance
• Drive systems optimization and process improvements within NetSuite
• Provide guidance, training, and onboarding support to the Accounting Manager
• Foster accountability, development, and operational consistency within the accounting function

Compliance & Governance

• Strengthen internal control environment in alignment with PE expectations
• Support financial reporting accuracy, transparency, and timeliness
• Partner with executive leadership and private equity stakeholders as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required; Master’s degree preferred
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including
• 3+ years of senior‑level people management
• Private equity–backed company experience strongly preferred
• Strong ERP experience required
• Demonstrated success in building processes, policies, and scalable accounting infrastructure
• Proven ability to operate independently, think proactively, and drive initiatives without extensive oversight

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Strategic yet hands‑on leader who thrives in growth environments
• Strong process builder and compliance‑focused operator
• Confident communicator able to partner cross‑functionally with leadership
• Self‑directed, forward‑thinking, and solutions‑oriented