Controller - Oswald

Oswald Companies; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work schedule

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A leading financial firm in Cleveland is looking for an experienced Controller to oversee accounting operations and ensure compliance with GAAP. The successful candidate will drive accurate financial reporting while mentoring a skilled accounting team. A Bachelor's degree in Accounting is required, along with at least 10 years of relevant experience and strong understanding of financial systems. This is a full-time position with a collaborative work environment and requires local and potentially national travel to fulfill client relationships and participate in team activities.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience in accounting.
• Minimum of 3–5 years in public accounting.
• Strong working knowledge of GAAP and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee core accounting functions including financial reporting.
• Lead and mentor accounting staff, providing coaching.
• Manage accounts receivable and cash controls.

Skills

Strong knowledge of GAAP

Financial reporting

Leadership

Process improvement

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

ERP systems

Financial reporting tools

Job description

Job Summary

The Controller plays a key role in supporting the Vice President, Controller in managing the company’s accounting operations. This position ensures compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), drives accurate financial reporting, strengthens internal controls, and fosters a collaborative, high-performing team environment. The ideal candidate brings a strategic mindset, strong technical expertise, and a passion for continuous improvement.

A Day In The Life

• Oversee core accounting functions including general ledger management, month-end close, and financial reporting.
• Support the development and maintenance of financial controls and accounting systems to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of internal and external financial statements.
• Lead and mentor accounting staff, providing coaching, training, and performance feedback.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support business initiatives and financial decision‑making.
• Manage accounts receivable and cash controls, ensuring timely collections and accurate bank reconciliations.
• Oversee disbursement activities including accounts payable, purchase orders, payroll expenses, and employee reimbursements.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting processes, providing financial insights to support strategic planning.
• Coordinate audit activities and prepare documentation for external auditors.
• Maintain and enforce accounting policies and procedures to safeguard company assets.
• Stay current on industry trends, accounting standards, and regulatory changes.
• Continuously identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance from a four‑year college or university.
• 10+ years of relevant experience, including at least 5 years of progressive accounting experience.
• Minimum of 3–5 years in public accounting.
• Experience in a large corporate or divisional environment.
• Strong working knowledge of GAAP and relevant regulatory standards.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and financial reporting tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
• Experience leading accounting teams and driving process improvements.

Who You Are

• Committed to high ethical standards and integrity.
• Strong communicator with excellent verbal and written skills.
• Analytical and detail‑oriented with exceptional organizational abilities.
• Collaborative leader who builds trust and strong relationships across teams.
• Self‑motivated, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Passionate about continuous learning and professional development.

Travel Expectations

• Flexible/Role‑Based Travel: Travel requirements vary based on business priorities and role responsibilities; flexibility to travel locally or nationally is expected.
• This role may involve travel to support client relationships, attend conferences, or participate in team offsites.

Physical and Environmental Demands

This role involves typical duties performed in an office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. To request a disability‑related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application, or interview process, please contact us at [e-mail] to discuss your specific need.

• Physical Requirements: Primarily sedentary work involving sitting, typing, and handling office equipment. Occasional walking, standing, and lifting up to 10 pounds may be required.
• Manual Dexterity & Vision: Requires sufficient manual dexterity and visual acuity for computer use, data analysis, and document preparation.
• Work Environment: Standard indoor office setting with moderate noise levels and climate control.

Work Schedule & Hours

Full‑time hours: Core business hours of Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and/or occasional weekend hours totaling 40 or more hours per week; no overtime payable. (FLSA Status: Exempt) (Note: job responsibilities and travel expectations at this level will often require the performance of job duties beyond the normal workweek schedule.)