Controller - Public Sectors

Leoforce; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Leoforce is seeking a seasoned Controller-level professional to oversee core accounting and financial reporting for a municipal government client. The role focuses on leading month-end close, tax compliance, and process improvements in a regulated environment.

The successful candidate will guide GL activities, strengthen internal controls, and partner with leadership to provide financial insight for strategic decisions, audits, and compliance across the organization.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with leadership at Controller or senior level.
• Strong knowledge of GL accounting, month-end close, financial reporting and tax compliance.
• Experience improving accounting processes, controls, and workflows.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the general ledger, month-end and year-end close processes with accurate reporting.
• Manage accounting operations including journal entries, reconciliations, accruals, fixed assets and analysis.
• Lead and mentor accounting staff while ensuring accuracy and accountability.
• Support budgeting, forecasting and financial planning initiatives as needed.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Month-end close

Financial reporting

Leadership

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Job description

Job Description

Experience: Director Salary: $180,000 - $225,000 per year

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the general ledger, month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Manage accounting operations, including journal entries, reconciliations, accruals, fixed assets, and account analysis.
• Oversee tax-related activities and ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
• Prepare and review financial statements, schedules, and management reports in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
• Develop, document, and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, improve efficiencies, and strengthen financial controls.
• Partner with internal departments and leadership to provide financial insight and support operational decision-making.
• Assist with annual audits and coordinate with external auditors, public accounting firms, and other external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with applicable governmental accounting standards, regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Lead and mentor accounting staff while maintaining a high standard of accuracy and accountability.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and other financial planning initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Active CPA license strongly preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with experience at the Controller or senior accounting leadership level.
• Strong knowledge of GL accounting, month-end close, financial reporting, reconciliations, and tax compliance.
• Experience improving accounting processes, controls, and workflows.
• Public accounting or public-sector/municipal accounting experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while partnering effectively with leadership and cross-functional teams.

A bit about us:

Our client, a well-established municipal government organization, is seeking an experienced Controller to oversee core accounting and financial reporting functions. This is a hands‑on leadership opportunity for a well‑rounded accounting professional who can manage the general ledger, month‑end close, tax compliance, financial reporting, and process improvement initiatives across the organization.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical accounting foundation, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively in a complex public‑sector environment. Experience in public accounting, government/municipal accounting, or another highly regulated environment is highly preferred.

Why join us?

• Meaningful Impact: Play a key role supporting the financial operations of a municipal organization and the community it serves.
• Leadership & Ownership: Take ownership of critical accounting functions while partnering directly with organizational leadership.
• Process Improvement: Have the opportunity to modernize processes, strengthen controls, and drive greater efficiency across the accounting function.
• Stability: Join an established public‑sector organization offering long‑term career stability and a mission‑driven environment.
• Professional Growth: Expand your experience across financial reporting, tax, compliance, audit, and municipal accounting.

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