Strategic Controller for PE Portfolio Growth

Blue Ops Partners; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Ops Partners in Chicago seeks an experienced in-seat Controller to lead client accounting operations, strengthen internal controls, and provide actionable financial insights to portfolio leadership. You will manage the full accounting function, drive close processes, support budgeting and forecasting, and mentor staff, traveling 25-40% to client sites as needed.

This role requires deep GAAP knowledge, public accounting or PE-backed experience, and a proven track record of partnering with

Qualifications

• Hands-on GAAP knowledge with leadership experience.
• Proven ability to manage financial operations in dynamic client environments.
• Strong communicator able to partner across organization and with PE sponsors.
• Experience leading teams and delivering key deliverables under tight timelines.
• Willingness to travel 25-40% on-site with clients.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee accounting operations for clients, including month-end close and internal controls.
• Oversee general ledger, month-end close, and financial statement preparation.
• Ensure balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow accuracy.
• Maintain internal controls, policies, and standardized procedures.
• Oversee cash management, including AP, AR, treasury, fixed assets, and forecasting.
• Coordinate annual audits with external auditors and lenders.
• Drive process improvements to shorten close cycles.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to leadership.
• Mentor accounting staff and develop a high-performance team.
• Liaise with private equity sponsors and portfolio leadership.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Accounting leadership

Client-facing

Communication

Process improvement

Travel 25-40%

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Blue Ops Partners in Chicago seeks an experienced in-seat Controller to lead client accounting operations, strengthen internal controls, and provide actionable financial insights to portfolio leadership. You will manage the full accounting function, drive close processes, support budgeting and forecasting, and mentor staff, traveling 25-40% to client sites as needed.

This role requires deep GAAP knowledge, public accounting or PE-backed experience, and a proven track record of partnering with