Financial Controller

Barrows; New York (NY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, Vision

401K with match

Parental leave

Disability & life insurance

Job summary

Barrows, a commerce experience agency, seeks a Financial Controller to lead North America finance from NYC. Drive financial governance, partner with leadership, and optimize costing, pricing, and systems. CPA with 8+ years in accounting in a fast-paced agency setting is ideal.

The role oversees monthly closes, audits, and regulatory filings, with a focus on data-driven decision support and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required; Master’s preferred.
• CPA certification mandatory; 8+ years progressive accounting experience.
• Deep knowledge of GAAP; IFRS exposure a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee monthly and quarterly financials, variance and cash-flow analysis, forecasting, and consolidation of group income statements.
• Lead the annual audit process, design internal controls, and ensure GAAP/IFRS compliance.
• Collaborate with Account, Commercial, and Leadership teams to provide financial insights and drive cost-saving initiatives.
• Supervise billing, A/R, A/P, GL, and revenue recognition activities, ensuring timely close processes.
• Prepare management reports and coordinate regulatory and tax filings with global and local partners.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Leadership

GAAP expertise

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Master’s degree preferred

CPA certification

Tools

Sage X3

Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

Barrows is a commerce experience agency dedicated to building the world’s leading experiences for brands and retailers. We combine data-led strategy, creativity, and technology to engage and convert shoppers online and in-store. From shopper marketing to retail toolkits, display design, category management and store design, we deliver end-to-end solutions that don’t just meet expectations, they re-imagine them.

Backed by the scale and innovation of WPP and VML, our global team re-imagines what’s possible at the intersection of creativity and commerce. We bring together strategy, design, and AI-powered insights to help clients achieve more with less all fueled by a can-do spirit, relentless curiosity, and the belief that remarkable experiences can both build brands and grow real business results.

Role & Responsibilities

We’re seeking a Financial Controller to lead the North America finance function from our NYC office a key role driving financial integrity, operational efficiency, and business partnership across the Barrows network. This role is perfect for someone who loves the balance of strategic oversight and hands on impact someone who thrives in a fast-paced creative agency environment, values collaboration, and finds energy in solving complex financial challenges. You’ll work closely with cross disciplinary teams and leadership to ensure sound financial governance, support decision making, and help shape the future of Barrows’ North American business.

We’re looking for someone who brings drive, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit to every challenge and can:

• Oversee monthly and quarterly financials, variance and cash-flow analysis, forecasting, and consolidation of group income statements.
• Maintain accounting accuracy, lead the annual audit process, design internal controls, and ensure GAAP/IFRS compliance.
• Collaborate with Account, Commercial, and Leadership teams to provide financial insights, guide costing/pricing models, and drive cost-saving initiatives.
• Supervise billing, A/R, A/P, GL, and revenue recognition activities, ensuring timely and accurate close processes.
• Prepare management reports, present financial insights to leadership, and coordinate regulatory and tax filings with global and local partners.
• Identify opportunities to streamline systems, strengthen processes, and leverage data to enhance decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (Master’s preferred).
• CPA required, with 8+ years of progressive accounting experience (agency or creative industry background preferred).
• Deep knowledge of GAAP; exposure to IFRS a plus.
• Proficient in Sage X3 and Microsoft Office Suite (advanced Excel skills required).
• Exceptional analytical and communication skills — able to translate complex data into clear insights.
• Proven ability to lead month-end and year-end close processes, audits, and forecasting cycles.
• Detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and highly collaborative with a passion for improving systems and processes.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this role is $110,000 to $160,000*

*exact compensation will be determined based on individual experience

Benefits include:

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision (with an option for free medical care!)
• 401K with a % match
• Various maternity/paternity leave options
• Fully funded disability and life insurance options