Corporate, Fund Controller

Guardian Properties, LLC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Paid time off

401K match

Job summary

Guardian Properties, LLC is seeking a dynamic Controller to lead property-level corporate accounting for its growing multifamily portfolio in Chicago.

You will own consolidations, GAAP compliance, month-end close, and investor reporting, partnering with asset management and operations. The role requires 8–15 years in accounting with at least 5 in real estate; CPA or MBA preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
• 8–15 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 5 in real estate.
• Strong GAAP knowledge and real estate tax and reporting standards.
• Proficiency with property management systems (AppFolio, Sage Intacct, Yardi, RealPage).

Responsibilities

• Oversee corporate and property-level financial reporting and accounting for the multifamily portfolio.
• Lead month-end and year-end close, consolidations, reconciliations, and financial statement prep.
• Build and enforce internal controls to safeguard assets and improve reporting accuracy.
• Partner with asset management, acquisitions, and operations teams for insights.
• Drive cash flow management, forecasting, and treasury functions.
• Oversee investor reporting and financial modeling.
• Manage relationships with auditors, tax advisors, and lenders.
• Implement and enhance accounting systems to increase efficiency.
• Lead and mentor an accounting team and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Real estate accounting

Financial modeling

Excel advanced

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Consolidation & close

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting/Finance

CPA or MBA preferred

Tools

Sage Intacct

Yardi

RealPage

AppFolio

Job description

Guardian Properties, a subsidiary of Collective Residential, is a value-add multifamily investment and property management platform focused on growing and optimizing a portfolio of apartment communities. As part of a private equity‑backed, hyper‑growth ecosystem, Guardian combines disciplined property operations with strong financial oversight to drive performance and long‑term value for investors and residents. We’re looking for a dynamic Controller to lead property‑level corporate accounting and financial reporting for Guardian Properties’ growing multifamily portfolio. In this role, you will own the consolidation of all property and corporate results into accurate, timely financial statements and management reports, ensuring a clear view of performance across the platform. If you’ve mastered the fundamentals of multifamily real estate accounting and are ready to bring that expertise to a fast‑moving, PE‑backed platform company, this role offers the opportunity to have a direct and visible impact on our success. Responsibilities

• Oversee all corporate and property‑level financial reporting and accounting for Guardian Properties’ multifamily portfolio.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and real estate financial standards.
• Lead month‑end and year‑end close, consolidations of property and corporate results, reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
• Build and enforce strong internal controls to safeguard assets and improve reporting accuracy.
• Partner with asset management, acquisitions, and operations teams to provide financial insights.
• Drive cash flow management, forecasting, and treasury functions.
• Oversee investor reporting, financial modeling, and performance analysis.
• Manage relationships with auditors, tax advisors, and financial institutions.
• Implement and enhance accounting systems (Sage Intacct, Yardi, RealPage) to increase efficiency.
• Lead and mentor an accounting team, fostering accountability and continuous improvement. Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
• 8–15 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 5 in real estate (multifamily experience strongly preferred).
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, real estate tax structures, and financial reporting standards.
• Expertise in property management accounting systems (AppFolio, Sage Intacct, Yardi, RealPage, or similar).
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing accounting teams.
• Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, hyper‑growth environment. Benefits
• Competitive salary;
• Bonus;
• Paid time off;
• 401K match.