Financial Controller

StevenDouglas; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity potential

Direct report to the CEO

Opportunity to shape the in-house accounting function

Job summary

A dynamic startup company in Milwaukee is seeking a Controller to build and own the accounting function as they scale. This position will involve managing the full accounting cycle, ensuring compliance with GAAP, and partnering with leadership for financial planning. Ideal candidates should have 5-10 years of accounting experience, preferably in a startup environment, and possess a Bachelor's degree. This role offers equity potential and a fast-paced work environment.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally including startup or small company environments.
• CPA strongly preferred.
• Experience owning the close process end-to-end.

Responsibilities

• Own the full accounting cycle, including monthly close, journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting in accordance with GAAP.
• Build, document, and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.

Skills

Strong knowledge of GAAP

Strong communication skills

Experience with accounting systems

Hands-on mentality

Comfortable operating with ambiguity

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

NetSuite

QuickBooks

Excel

Job description

Overview

We’re looking for a hands-on, detail-loving Controller to build and own our accounting function as we scale. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in fast-paced startup environments, can zoom out strategically and zoom way in on the numbers, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves.

You’ll be responsible for the integrity of our financials, improving processes, and partnering closely with leadership to support smart, data-driven decisions.

What stands out

• Direct report to the CEO
• Ability to own and mold the in-house accounting function
• Equity potential

Responsibilities

• Own the full accounting cycle, including monthly close, journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting in accordance with GAAP
• Build, document, and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Manage cash flow, forecasting, and budgeting processes
• Partner with leadership on financial planning, analysis, and strategic initiatives
• Prepare financials and support investor, board, and lender reporting
• Oversee audits, tax filings, and coordination with external accounting and tax partners
• Support system implementations and scaling of financial infrastructure
• Manage and mentor accounting staff or outsourced partners as the company grows

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA strongly preferred)
• 5–10 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally including startup or small company environments
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting
• Experience owning the close process end-to-end
• Comfortable operating with ambiguity and evolving processes
• Hands-on mentality — you’re not above doing the work while building for the future
• Strong communication skills and ability to partner cross-functionally
• Experience with accounting systems (NetSuite, QuickBooks, or similar) and Excel