Controller - Real Estate

Phaxis; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Comprehensive benefits including medical and dental

Flexible PTO

Professional development resources

Job summary

A leading finance firm is seeking a senior finance leader in Chicago to oversee accounting for a diversified multifamily real estate portfolio. This role requires extensive experience in multifamily property accounting and GAAP compliance. The ideal candidate will enhance internal controls and provide strategic financial insights. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits are offered, along with a dynamic work environment.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years in real estate (multifamily experience highly desirable).
• Deep understanding of GAAP, tax structures relevant to real estate, and reporting requirements for property-level and consolidated entities.
• Demonstrated success leading and developing accounting teams.

Responsibilities

• Direct all accounting and financial reporting activities.
• Maintain compliance with GAAP and tax requirements.
• Lead month-end and year-end close processes.

Skills

Multifamily property accounting

GAAP compliance

Analytical capabilities

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline

CPA or MBA strongly preferred

Tools

Yardi

RealPage

Sage Intacct

Job description

Base pay range

$180,000.00/yr - $210,000.00/yr

This range is provided by Phaxis. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

About the Role

We are seeking a senior finance leader to oversee the full scope of accounting and financial reporting for a large, diversified multifamily real estate portfolio. This individual will ensure the accuracy of all financial information, strengthen internal controls, and deliver strategic insights that support organizational goals. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience in multifamily property accounting, corporate consolidations, GAAP compliance, and managing internal and external accounting resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct all accounting and financial reporting activities, including consolidation of operating entities for corporate-level reporting.
• Maintain compliance with GAAP, tax requirements, and industry-specific real estate accounting standards.
• Lead month-end and year-end close processes, including reconciliations and preparation of consolidated financial statements.
• Establish and enhance internal control frameworks to ensure data integrity and safeguard company assets.
• Partner closely with asset management, investment, and operations teams to deliver analytical support and financial insights.
• Oversee cash flow management, forecasting, and treasury functions.
• Coordinate with external auditors, tax professionals, financial partners, and other third-party service providers.
• Improve and optimize accounting systems, processes, and technology solutions.
• Manage accounting communications and reporting flows between corporate and portfolio-level entities.
• Oversee accounts payable and corporate expense management programs.

Our Cultural Principles

• Technology-Enabled Efficiency: We prioritize systems and tools that streamline workflows and reduce manual effort.
• Direct & Transparent Communication: We value clear dialogue that supports strong relationships and accountability.
• Speed with Thoughtfulness: We move decisively, balancing urgency with sound judgment.
• Ownership Mindset: Team members are expected to take initiative and follow through on commitments.
• People-Centered Leadership: We aim to build a supportive, high-trust environment grounded in emotional intelligence.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to build and elevate the finance function within a high-growth, investment-backed platform.
• Exposure to senior leaders, external partners, and key stakeholders.
• Competitive compensation package including salary, performance bonus, and potential equity.
• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, retirement match, flexible PTO, and professional development resources.
• Company-wide gatherings, team-building initiatives, and a collaborative, mission-driven culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline; CPA or MBA strongly preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years in real estate (multifamily experience highly desirable).
• Deep understanding of GAAP, tax structures relevant to real estate, and reporting requirements for property-level and consolidated entities.
• Experience with property management systems such as Yardi, RealPage, or equivalent platforms.
• Demonstrated success leading and developing accounting teams.
• Strong analytical capabilities, communication skills, and business judgment.
• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, fast-growing environment.
• Familiarity with Sage Intacct is a plus.

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Accounting/Auditing

Industries

Financial Services and Real Estate