Controller, CPA

Controller, CPA | Path to CFO

Metro Atlanta, Georgia | $185,000–$225,000 + Bonus & Incentives

We are seeking a highly accomplished Controller with an active CPA, a strong audit background, and extensive GAAP expertise to join an established organization in Metro Atlanta.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced accounting and finance leader who is ready to take the next step in their career. The company is proactively planning for the future of its financial leadership team and is looking for a Controller with the technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and business acumen to eventually transition into the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) position.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong combination of public accounting and private industry experience, with a deep understanding of financial reporting, technical accounting, internal controls, and audit processes.

We are looking for someone who can not only manage the accounting function at a high level but also serve as a strategic business partner to executive leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, financial reporting, month-end and year-end close, and financial statement preparation.
• Ensure compliance with US GAAP and maintain the highest standards of financial reporting accuracy and integrity.
• Lead external audit activities, coordinate with independent auditors, and maintain a strong internal control environment.
• Provide technical accounting guidance on complex transactions, accounting policies, and reporting requirements.
• Manage, mentor, and develop the accounting and finance team while building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Partner with executive leadership on financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic business decisions.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen accounting processes, financial systems, and reporting efficiencies.
• Oversee cash flow management, working capital analysis, and financial risk management.
• Provide meaningful financial insights and recommendations to support operational performance and long-term growth.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic financial initiatives and organizational succession planning.
• Assume increasing strategic and executive-level responsibilities in preparation for a potential transition into the CFO role.

Qualifications

• Active CPA designation required.
• 15+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience required.
• Combination of public accounting and private industry experience required.
• Strong audit background required , including hands-on experience with financial statement audits, audit processes, and internal controls.
• Exceptional knowledge of US GAAP , technical accounting, and financial reporting.
• Proven success in a Controller, Corporate Controller, or comparable senior accounting leadership position.
• Strong understanding of financial controls, accounting policies, compliance, and financial statement preparation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing accounting teams.
• Experience managing external audit relationships and addressing complex accounting matters.
• Strong financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analytical capabilities.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and executive presentation skills.
• Ability to balance detailed technical accounting responsibilities with broader strategic financial leadership.
• Strong executive presence, sound business judgment, and the ambition to advance into a CFO role.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This is more than a traditional Controller position.

The organization is taking a proactive approach to succession planning and is seeking a proven accounting leader who can grow into a broader executive financial leadership role.

For the right individual, this opportunity offers the chance to leverage an extensive technical accounting and audit background while developing the strategic and operational capabilities required of a successful CFO.

Key highlights include:

• Clear Path to CFO: Opportunity to advance into the organization's top financial leadership position as part of its succession planning strategy.
• Executive Exposure: Work closely with senior leadership and contribute to important financial and business decisions.
• Strong Compensation: Competitive base salary of $185,000–$225,000 plus bonus and additional incentives.
• Strategic Influence: Play a meaningful role in strengthening financial operations, improving processes, and supporting long-term business objectives.
• Career Advancement: Transition from a technical accounting leader into a broader strategic finance executive.

If you're interested in learning more about this opportunity or would like to discuss your qualifications, please apply now.