Controller

CS&L CPAs; Sarasota (FL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Program

Paid Time Off & Holidays

CPA Exam Bonus Program

Mentorship & Business Development

Job summary

CS&L CPAs seeks a CPA Controller to lead operations, finance, and administration in a growing public accounting firm.

You will partner with firm leadership to optimize performance, streamline processes, and support strategic growth while delivering an exceptional employee and client experience. Some travel to Bradenton and Tampa is required, with remote work 1–2 days weekly after 90 days.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Accounting/Finance/Business Administration.
• 5+ years progressive accounting experience in mid-sized professional services; CPA firm or law firm preferred.
• Experience leveraging technology to automate accounting workflows.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across multiple offices.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, payroll, billing, collections, and financial reporting.
• Lead strategic planning with firm leadership for growth and improvements.
• Implement scalable processes and technology to enhance productivity.
• Direct HR functions including recruiting, benefits, and compliance.
• Travel occasionally to Bradenton and Tampa offices as needed (occasional).

Skills

Leadership

Financial acumen

Automation

Budgeting

Billing

Internal controls

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration

Tools

Intacct

Bill.com

CCH

Microsoft Office

Job description

Flexible Onsite in downtown Sarasota, FL

Why CS&L?

We know talented professionals have options, so we invest in creating a workplace where you can build a rewarding career while maintaining a life outside of work.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance (2 medical plans available)
• Group Life, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Coverage
• Voluntary Benefits including: Critical Illness & Accident Insurance, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Telehealth Services, Additional Life Insurance Options
• 401(k) Retirement Program
• Generous Paid Time Off & Holidays
• CPA Exam Bonus Program
• Mentorship & Business Development Program
• CS&L Cares Program – Supporting our team members and communities when they need it most

Where You'll Work

You'll work from our beautiful downtown Sarasota office, where you'll enjoy your own private office with stunning views. We believe in supporting work-life balance, which is why you'll have the opportunity to work remotely one-two days per week after your first 90 days. This role offers the chance to collaborate with talented professionals across our Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa offices while working in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

What You'll Do

As a CPA Controller, you'll play a pivotal leadership role in driving the success of our CPA firm by overseeing operations, finance, and administration. You'll partner with firm leadership to optimize business performance, improve processes, support strategic growth, and create an exceptional experience for both employees and clients. This is an ideal opportunity for a proactive, results-oriented leader who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced public accounting environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the firm's daily operations, ensuring efficient and effective business performance across multiple office locations.
• Oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, payroll, billing, collections, cash flow, and financial reporting.
• Partner with firm leadership on strategic planning, operational improvements, and growth initiatives.
• Streamline workflows by leveraging technology and implementing scalable processes that enhance productivity and client service.
• Direct all human resources functions, including recruiting, onboarding, benefits administration, employee development, and compliance.
• Manage technology, vendor relationships, facilities, and business continuity to support seamless firm operations.
• Ensure compliance with accounting industry regulations, employment laws, internal policies, and risk management standards.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing workplace culture focused on excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Willing and able to travel occasionally to office locations in Bradenton and Tampa as business needs require.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field, required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive accounting experience in a mid-sized professional services environment; experience in a CPA firm or law firm, strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to leverage technology and implement automation to enhance accounting workflows and efficiency.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience managing budgets, billing, and internal controls.
• Familiarity with accounting and tax software platforms and practice management systems. (Intacct, Bill.com, CCH)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and general office systems.
• High level of attention to detail and a commitment to precision in financial work.
• Willing and able to travel occasionally to office locations in Bradenton and Tampa as business needs require.