Global Forwarding Controller — CPA Leader

Imperative Logistics; West Chicago Township (IL); On-site; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

401k + matching contribution

HSA + matching contribution

Paid Time Off

Life Insurance

Employer‑paid short and long‑term(dis)

More benefits

Job summary

Imperative Logistics is seeking a Senior Controller to lead the accounting team for the Global Forwarding segment. You will oversee accounts payable, payroll, treasury, financial reporting and close processes, ensuring GAAP compliance and strong internal controls.

This role partners with executive leadership to drive financial strategy and growth, including integration of acquisitions. Ideal candidates have 5+ years controllership experience, CPA, and proven ability to translate operational data

Qualifications

• 5+ years in controllership role with full-cycle accounting experience.
• Public accounting background and CPA required.
• Strong communicator, both verbal and written.
• Strategic/critical thinking and problem solving.
• Experience with executive leadership (CFO/CEO).
• GAAP knowledge and policy implementation experience.
• Experience in audits and internal/external controls.
• Experience with logistics or freight forwarding is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead finance and accounting operations for the Global Forwarding segment, including AP, payroll & benefits, cash management, and month-end close.
• Prepare monthly financial reporting packages with narratives for executive leadership; support budgeting and forecasting.
• Oversee acquisitions integration (consolidations, branding, policies, personnel).
• Monitor AP, OCR matching, and EDI interfaces; improve reporting with IT collaboration.
• Lead and develop accounting teams, including hiring and performance management.
• Administer commission calculations for sales and operations teams; ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Support annual financial statements and borrowing base audits; ensure timely data submission.
• Ensure GAAP compliance and lead adoption of new accounting standards.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Leadership

Financial analysis

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

Tools

Cargowise

Sage Intacct

Concur

Job description

Imperative Logistics is seeking a Senior Controller to lead the accounting team for the Global Forwarding segment. You will oversee accounts payable, payroll, treasury, financial reporting and close processes, ensuring GAAP compliance and strong internal controls.

This role partners with executive leadership to drive financial strategy and growth, including integration of acquisitions. Ideal candidates have 5+ years controllership experience, CPA, and proven ability to translate operational data