Controller

Heritage Bank NW; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 126,546 - 158,183; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

Sick leave

Holidays

Job summary

Heritage Bank NW is seeking a Controller in Tacoma, WA to lead accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls. The role ensures GAAP compliance, regulatory filings, and coordination of external audits for a public company environment.

Responsibilities include managing daily accounting functions, policies, and the CECL model, while guiding and coaching staff and supporting complex financial projections and mergers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field.
• Minimum five years of progressive accounting/finance leadership.
• CPA license required or preferred; CMA is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting policies, procedures, and GAAP compliance.
• Manage daily accounting processes including GL, AP, taxes, fixed assets.
• Coordinate SEC reporting and regulatory filings (10-Q, 10-K, etc.).
• Lead internal controls under SOX and ensure accuracy of financial reports.
• Guide staff development and manage cross‑location teams.
• Support financial projections, acquisitions, and due diligence.
• Interface with auditors and ensure timely financial disclosure.

Skills

Five+ years accounting leadership

GAAP knowledge

Strong communication

CPA (preferred)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field

Equivalent combination of education and experience considered

Tools

Concur

Fi serv Prologue/ERP

Job description

Position

Controller

Base Salary Range

$126,546.00 - $158,183.00 annual, with potential up to $189,819.00

Location

Tacoma, WA

Hours

Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., full‑time on‑site

Overview

Responsible for managing, planning and coordinating the accounting and financial reporting functions of the company. This includes overseeing the preparation and timely filing of quarterly (10‑Q) and annual (10‑K) reports with the SEC, required regulatory reports, and production of periodic financial reports, while maintaining an adequate system of accounting records and a comprehensive set of controls in compliance with the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act (SOX). The role ensures the accuracy of reported financial results and compliance with GAAP and financial reporting standards.

Responsibilities

• Maintain appropriate internal controls and ensure compliance with SOX.
• Establish and oversee accounting policies, procedures, and practices in compliance with GAAP and reporting standards at all levels.
• Manage daily accounting processes, including investment security accounting, accounts payable, fixed assets, income taxes, prepaid expenses, accrued expenses, and the general ledger.
• Analyze transactions to determine the correct accounting treatment and ensure financial reports are prepared per GAAP and regulatory requirements.
• Provide accounting guidance and leadership to the company’s operating units.
• Oversee preparation of FDIC, Federal Reserve, SEC quarterly and annual reports and schedules (including Call, 10Q, 10K, FRY 9C, FRY 9LP) and 11‑K filings; coordinate audits with internal and external auditors.
• Assist with the development of complex financial projections involving acquisitions, mergers, and business combinations, and perform due diligence analysis as directed.
• Monitor new accounting pronouncements and developments; implement policies, procedures, standards, and pronouncements from authoritative bodies (FASB, AICPA, SEC, FDIC) and identify financial impacts.
• Provide direct reports with authority and tools; develop staff skills through coaching, performance management, and training.
• Participate in bank‑wide projects and initiatives as needed.
• Manage quarterly calculation of allowance for credit losses, including the CECL model, supporting workpapers, and documentation controls.
• Guide the evolution of the company’s accounting system and processing procedures.
• Maintain knowledge of state and federal banking laws and ensure compliance with bank policies in partnership with Enterprise Risk Management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field.
• Five or more years of progressive, responsible accounting or finance experience in a leadership role within a major corporation or division, with background in the financial services industry.
• Experience working in a highly regulated public‑company environment.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA) preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education, certifications, and relevant experience may be considered.
• Exceptional level of quality service for internal and external customers; responsive and effective communication.
• Strong listening, verbal, written, and telephone etiquette; effective questioning strategies and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership, management, performance management, and training skills, including oversight of employees in remote locations.
• Ability to develop and manage income and expense budgets.
• Strategic decision‑making, analytical, and quantitative skills supporting business decisions through financial modeling and analysis.
• Advanced knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles, including GAAP.
• Excellent problem‑solving, organizational, and time‑management skills with ability to meet multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Thorough understanding and application of compliance requirements, state/federal regulations, and policies related to oversight area.
• Unquestionable integrity in handling sensitive and confidential information.
• Advanced proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); quick adaptation to new technologies.
• Experience and working knowledge of Concur or similar accounts payable systems.
• Strong working knowledge of Fiserv Prologue or similar ERP financial suites preferred.

Work Environment

• Climate‑controlled office.
• Work involves concentration amid distractions and frequent interruptions.
• Regular attendance, punctuality, and adherence to the schedule is required; willingness to work flexible or extended hours as needed.

Physical Demands

• Constant use of computer screens, reading reports, and prolonged sitting.
• Operate a computer keyboard, multi‑line telephone, photocopier, scanner, and fax with repetitive wrist and hand motion.
• Mostly sitting; occasional standing, stooping, bending, kneeling or crouching to file materials.
• Occasional lifting or moving of up to 10 lbs. (files, boxes, etc.).

Travel

Willingness to travel to other bank locations and meeting sites, including overnight travel when needed. Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance, or the ability to use alternative transportation, is required.

Benefits

Full‑time team members receive a minimum of 10 paid vacation days annually* and eight hours of paid sick leave per month*, 11 paid holidays each calendar year, and an annual float day. Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), and community volunteer time are also provided.

*Pro‑rated from start date and/or hours worked. Additional benefits may include monthly, quarterly, or annual incentive programs and bonuses.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Heritage Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Legal Rights

Job applicants have certain legal rights. For more information, please review the applicable application‑process rights.

Contact

Email for assistance completing the online application: [e-mail]

Salary Range Disclaimer

The base salary range represents Heritage Bank’s current salary range for the position. Actual salaries will vary depending on qualifications, experience, and job performance. The range listed is one component of the total compensation package for full‑time and part‑time employees, which may include monthly, quarterly, or annual incentive rewards and/or bonuses.