Controller

The CSP Group; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The CSP Group is seeking a Controller for their financial services division in St. Louis. This leadership role is crucial as the company prepares for growth and an IPO. The ideal candidate will have a CPA, significant accounting experience, and the ability to lead a team effectively.

Key responsibilities include managing the close process, ensuring GAAP compliance, leading audits, and developing an accounting team. Strong analytical and leadership skills are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of accounting experience.
• Public accounting experience strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to lead, review, and develop accounting staff.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process.
• Serve as the primary authority on GAAP and accounting policy.
• Lead all external audits and manage relationships with auditors.

Skills

Strong knowledge of GAAP

Advanced Excel skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Leadership abilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

CPA certification

Tools

NetSuite or comparable ERP experience

Job description

We are working with a growing financial services company headquartered in St. Louis to find their next Controller. This key leadership role is newly created to support the firm’s continued growth and IPO plans. We are looking for a CPA who is technical, can lead a team, work comfortably in gray areas, and has the ability to make order out of complexity. The position will report to the CFO and manage a team of 4 in Accounting.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounting & Close Ownership

• Own and manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process across all entities
• Ensure timely, accurate, and complete financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP
• Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and close support
• Maintain a disciplined close calendar and enforce deadlines

GAAP, Technical Accounting & Judgment

• Serve as the primary authority on GAAP, accounting policy, and technical accounting matters
• Research, document, and implement accounting treatment for complex transactions (M&A, equity, intercompany, leases, revenue)
• Maintain accounting policies, procedures, and documentation

Audit, Tax & External Relationships

• Lead all external audits, reviews, and examinations
• Act as the primary point of contact for external auditors and tax advisors
• Manage audit planning, PBC requests, issue resolution, and final deliverables
• Coordinate with tax advisors to ensure timely and accurate filings (income, sales/use, payroll, etc.)

Internal Controls & Risk Management

• Design, implement, and maintain effective internal controls
• Identify financial and operational risks and implement mitigation strategies
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and applicable regulatory requirements

Systems & Process Governance

• Own the accounting system of record (NetSuite) and related subledgers
• Ensure system configuration supports GAAP compliance and scalable processes
• Partner with FP&A and IT on data integrity, integrations, and process improvements
• Drive continuous improvement in accounting workflows and efficiency

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and develop the accounting team, setting clear expectations and accountability
• Provide coaching, review work product, and support professional growth
• Establish clear ownership across accounting roles to avoid duplication and gaps

Partnership & Communication

• Partner with the CFO on accounting implications of strategic initiatives
• Collaborate with FP&A, Commissions, and Operations to ensure clean handoffs and data accuracy
• Clearly communicate accounting outcomes, risks, and issues to leadership

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• CPA certification required
• Minimum of 7 years of accounting experience
• Public accounting experience strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, technical accounting and financial regulations
• Demonstrated ownership of month‑end close and audit
• NetSuite or comparable ERP experience
• Experience with multi‑entity and intercompany accounting
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Advanced Excel skills
• Proven ability to lead, review, and develop accounting staff
• Strong communication, judgment, and organizational skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Knowledge of tax compliance and reporting