Lead Controller, High-Growth SaaS — Equity + 20% Bonus

Dave Steineke Executive Search; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 258,000 - 304,000; Full time

Job summary

We are seeking a hands-on Controller to build and lead a scalable finance operating model for a high-growth SaaS business in San Francisco. You will own the accounting foundation and partner with Finance and cross-functional teams to improve planning, controls, cash visibility, and decision-making.

The role demands a senior finance leader who can balance strategy and execution: establishing policies, strengthening close, implementing systems, and developing a high-performing team (12 reports).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required.
• CPA or equivalent experience preferred.
• 10+ years in accounting with controllership responsibility.
• Experience in high-growth SaaS or recurring-revenue environments.
• Strong US GAAP knowledge and audit management.

Responsibilities

• Own monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes.
• Prepare GAAP-compliant financial statements and reports.
• Establish policies, controls, and internal controls for scaling SaaS.
• Oversee revenue recognition, deferred revenue, and equity accounting.
• Manage annual audit, tax, and external partners.
• Build a scalable finance operating model and team.

Skills

US GAAP knowledge

Audit coordination

Financial analysis

Executive communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA or equivalent experience

Tools

ERP systems

Billing systems

Excel/BI tools

Job description

We are seeking a hands-on Controller to build and lead a scalable finance operating model for a high-growth SaaS business in San Francisco. You will own the accounting foundation and partner with Finance and cross-functional teams to improve planning, controls, cash visibility, and decision-making.

The role demands a senior finance leader who can balance strategy and execution: establishing policies, strengthening close, implementing systems, and developing a high-performing team (12 reports).