Senior Controller - Financial Reporting & Operations Lead

Vaco by Highspring; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 115,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaco by Highspring in Chicago, IL is seeking a hands-on Controller to lead accounting operations for a private-equity backed distribution business. You will own the close process, financial reporting, cash management, and internal controls while partnering with leadership to drive performance.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, a Bachelor's in Accounting or Finance, and experience across ERP systems. CPA is a plus.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience with responsibility for financial reporting and month-end close.
• Experience managing accounting operations in a small to mid-sized business.
• Mix of public accounting and private company experience.
• Experience in distribution, manufacturing, wholesale, e-commerce, or product-based businesses.
• CPA or other relevant professional certification is a plus.
• Experience supporting budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis activities.
• Experience with ERP systems, accounting platforms, and financial reporting tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger activities, and account reconciliations
• Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting
• Prepare and review financial statements, supporting schedules, and management reporting packages
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial records while maintaining strong internal controls
• Monitor balance sheet and income statement activity, investigating and resolving discrepancies as needed
• Partner with business leaders to support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities
• Analyze operating results and key business metrics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities
• Provide financial insights and recommendations that support strategic and operational decision-making
• Assist with ad hoc analyses, business cases, and performance reviews
• Monitor cash flow, liquidity, and working capital performance
• Oversee receivables, payables, and cash management activities
• Support efforts to improve cash conversion, operational efficiency, and financial performance
• Provide visibility into cash requirements and business funding needs
• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting team members
• Promote a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, strengthen controls, and improve reporting capabilities
• Support implementation and optimization of financial systems and workflows
• Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and other professional service providers
• Ensure compliance with applicable accounting, tax, and regulatory requirements
• Assist with audit, tax, and reporting deliverables as needed
• Support company-wide finance initiatives and process standardization efforts

Skills

Financial reporting

Month-end close

Team leadership

Budgeting & forecasting

Internal controls

Auditing support

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field

Tools

ERP systems

accounting platforms

financial reporting tools

Job description

Vaco by Highspring in Chicago, IL is seeking a hands-on Controller to lead accounting operations for a private-equity backed distribution business. You will own the close process, financial reporting, cash management, and internal controls while partnering with leadership to drive performance.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, a Bachelor's in Accounting or Finance, and experience across ERP systems. CPA is a plus.