Controller

Oliver James Group; Yarmouth (MA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Oliver James Group seeks a hands-on Controller for an expanding insurance organization, overseeing accounting operations and financial reporting across multiple business units in a high-ownership role with senior leadership.

The ideal candidate will manage a team of about four accounting professionals, maintain strong internal controls, and operate effectively in a changing environment, delivering timely reporting as the organization grows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA or MBA preferred.
• Strong GAAP knowledge and experience with statutory accounting in insurance.
• Experience leading a accounting team and managing remote/hybrid staff.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations across multiple business units, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and financial reporting.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and statutory accounting requirements applicable to insurance organizations.
• Lead and develop a team of approximately four accounting professionals, providing direction and accountability.
• Coordinate and support external audits and budgeting/forecasting processes.

Skills

Leadership

GAAP knowledge

Communication skills

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA or MBA preferred

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Accounting systems

Job description

Our client is a growing insurance organization seeking a Controller to oversee accounting operations and financial reporting across multiple business units. This is a true Controller position with significant ownership of the accounting function, partnering closely with senior leadership and playing a key role in the continued growth of the organization.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on accounting leader who can manage a team, maintain strong financial controls, and operate effectively in a changing environment. This individual will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact while taking on increasing responsibility as the organization continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities

Controller

About the Opportunity

Our client is a growing insurance organization seeking a Controller to oversee accounting operations and financial reporting across multiple business units. This is a true Controller position with significant ownership of the accounting function, partnering closely with senior leadership and playing a key role in the continued growth of the organization.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on accounting leader who can manage a team, maintain strong financial controls, and operate effectively in a changing environment. This individual will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact while taking on increasing responsibility as the organization continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations across multiple business units, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and financial reporting.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and statutory accounting requirements applicable to insurance organizations.
• Lead and develop a team of approximately four accounting professionals, providing direction, mentorship, and accountability.
• Establish strong communication and engagement across the accounting team, including effectively leading employees working remotely.
• Support the annual budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Manage cash flow and short-term investment activity.
• Maintain banking relationships and oversee related financial activities.
• Coordinate and support external audits.
• Develop, implement, and maintain effective internal controls and accounting processes.
• Compile and analyze policy and claims data in support of the reinsurance placement process.
• Partner with senior leadership on special projects, process improvements, and broader financial initiatives.
• Serve as a key accounting resource to the CFO and other members of the leadership team.
• Help foster a collaborative, accountable, and adaptable culture within the accounting function.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA or MBA preferred.
• 3+ years of relevant accounting experience, with the depth and leadership experience appropriate for a Controller-level position.
• Strong GAAP and statutory accounting knowledge; insurance industry experience is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading, mentoring, or managing an accounting team.
• Experience managing or collaborating with remote/hybrid employees is a strong plus.
• Public accounting experience is welcome, particularly for candidates looking to transition into an industry leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel and accounting systems.
• Highly organized, analytical, and detail-oriented, with sound judgment and strong follow-through.
• Ability to manage competing priorities while remaining hands-on and engaged with the team.
• Comfortable working in an environment where priorities can evolve and where the Controller is expected to take ownership and drive initiatives forward.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to adapt to different personalities and situations.
• Independent and self-motivated, while also comfortable taking charge and providing direction when needed.

Location & Work Schedule

This position is based in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with a hybrid schedule requiring approximately 2-3 days per week in the office.