Corporate Controller

Harmer; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 175,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Harmer Associates is seeking a Corporate Controller for a Detroit-based family office. The role partners with family members and advisors to oversee daily financial operations, planning, projection, reporting and investment reporting.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in financial/accounting roles, experience in private equity/real estate or financial services, CPA preferred and MBA a plus. Strong collaboration with senior management is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in financial and/or accounting roles, preferably with a Family Office, Real Estate, Private Equity or Financial Services related industries.
• CPA license preferred; MBA a plus.
• Experience with investment entities and tax planning structures.
• Proven ability to work in an entrepreneurial, high-energy environment with stakeholders.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to collaborate with senior management.

Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with financial institutions, banks, investment advisers and insurance companies.
• Oversee accounting activities related to investment entities and clients (individuals, trusts, partnerships).
• Collaborate with tax advisers to minimize liabilities through tax structures and investment entities.
• Support family office operations: budgeting, forecasting and project work.
• Provide customized financial reporting to principals, CFO and boards as directed.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Time management

Self-starter

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

MBA

Tools

ERP systems

General ledger software

Job description

Harmer Associates have been retained to find a Corporate Controller for a successful and growth oriented Detroit Family Office.

We are seeking a highly responsible and reliable Controller with exceptional management and communication skills. This role involves partnering with family members and their advisors to oversee financial and accounting activities, including daily financial operations, planning, projection, reporting, and investment reporting.

Position Overview:

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in both accounting and finance, with prior experience in public accounting and/or financial services / Real Estate or Fund Accounting. This position requires a proactive individual who can manage administrative tasks while providing accounting and operational support. We are looking for someone with a service-oriented mindset, a humble disposition, and a commitment to making a significant impact on our family office by enhancing our foundational practices for future growth. Effective collaboration and active listening in an environment with a highly involved Senior Management Team is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage relationships with financial institutions, including banks, investment advisers, and insurance companies.
• Assist with financial accounting activities related to investment entities managed by the family office and clients, including individuals, trusts, investment partnerships, and related entities.
• Collaborate with accountants and tax advisers to minimize tax liabilities through effective tax structures and/or the establishment of investment entities.
• Support family office operations, accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and select project work.
• Track financial reporting and capital call needs for private investments made by the family.
• Develop, implement, and maintain financial practices and procedures to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and controls.
• Drive overall financial risk management and related functions, taking initiative for continued improvements in controls and processes.
• Own the family office's accounting/ERP systems (e.g., consolidated general ledger platforms, entity accounting software) and evaluate/implement improvements as complexity grows.
• Deliver customized financial reporting packages to family principals, the CFO, and, as directed, family council or advisory boards.
• Uphold the family’s privacy and the highest ethical standards.
• Exercise sound judgment and discretion on all matters, with the discernment to know when to ask

Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience in a financial and/or accounting role preferably with a Family Office, Real Estate, Private Equity or Financial Services related industries.
• Bachelor’s degree required. MBA is a plus.
• CPA license preferred.
• Proven ability to work well in an entrepreneurial and high-energy environment in a collaborative culture.
• Strong organizational and time management skills and ability to prioritize.
• Must be a self-starter and driven to produce output of the highest quality.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and analytical abilities.

Compensation: $175,000 to $225,000 plus bonus