Financial Controller

The Financial Controller is responsible for the company's day-to-day financial operations.The Financial Controller is responsible for overseeing the company’s accounting and financial operations and supporting the financial stewardship of Local Projects. This role manages core financial processes, ensures accurate reporting and compliance, and partners with senior leadership to support planning and decision-making across a diverse portfolio of experience design projects. The Financial Controller works closely with project, operations, and leadership teams to provide clarity, structure, and financial insight within a collaborative, creative studio environment.RequirementsDuties/Responsibilities:• Prepares monthly and annual financial statements, including balance sheets and income statements, in accordance with GAAP.

• Provide Financial Insights for Leadership: Analyze financial data and prepare clear, actionable reports for senior leadership in collaboration with the CEO and COO to support strategic decision-making.

• Forecast and Evaluate Business Performance: Assess business operations, trends, costs, revenues, and financial commitments to project future revenue and expenses, enabling informed planning and resource allocation.

• Oversee all accounting operations, including accounts receivable and accounts payable, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant financial processes across the organization.

• Develop and maintain budgets and financial forecasts in partnership with the external CFO to support strategic planning and informed decision-making.

• Lead PEO Financial Management: Own the relationship with Justworks, ensuring payroll accuracy, benefits reconciliation, and proper labor cost accounting.

• Drive Compliance and Reporting: Ensure all payroll and benefits processes meet regulatory requirements, reconcile PEO data with internal records, and deliver timely, accurate financial reports.

• Partner Strategically with HR: Collaborate with the Director of HR to resolve operational and compliance issues, providing financial insights while maintaining clear separation from employee-facing HR responsibilities.

• Manage External Audit Processes: Coordinate with external auditors to ensure compliance with organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

• Strengthen Internal Controls: Develop and maintain internal control systems to safeguard assets and ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting.

• Oversee Expense and Reimbursement Administration: Manage the company’s expense reporting and reimbursement processes, including oversight of Bill.com.

• Manage Vendor Contracts: Oversee the administration and compliance of vendor contracts, ensuring terms are properly executed and monitored.

• Optimize Financial Operations: Develop and implement strategies to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and accuracy of financial operations.

• Support Complex Transactions: Guide and review complex financial transactions, including pre-execution contract evaluations, to mitigate risk.

• Evaluate Business Initiatives: Analyze the financial impact of new initiatives and investments to support strategic decision-making.

• Support HR Operations: Coordinate and administer financial and operational processes, as required, to support HR functions.

• Actively participate in their own development and support the growth of their peersRequired Skills/Abilities:• Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis, ideally in a client services or agency environment.

• Strong leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to guide and develop a finance team.

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including negotiation and stakeholder management.

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail, time management, and the ability to meet deadlines.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate complex financial and operational scenarios.

• Ability to adapt to evolving organizational needs, prioritize tasks, and delegate effectively.

• Working knowledge of HR-related financial processes, including payroll, benefits administration, and compliance with labor laws.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and financial software, with the ability to quickly learn new systems.• Thorough understanding of accounting principles, internal controls, and regulatory compliance.Education and Experience:• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation preferred.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a Controller or in a senior financial role.

• Advanced knowledge of GAAP principles, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.

• Proficiency with accounting software, including QuickBooks; experience with Bill.com is a plus.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with proven ability to manage complex financial operations.Additional Requirements• Primary residence must be in NY/NJ/CT/DC/VA/MD

• Commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.

• Must be able to work on site in our NYC Studio (hybrid)

• Must be eligible to work in the United StatesSalary: 120,000 to 150,000 (commensurate with experience)BenefitsLocal Projects offers to its Full-Time employees Health/Dental/Vision, FSA, 401k, access to short-term and Long Term Disability Insurance as well as a generous PTO package.Local Projects is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We believe that a range of perspectives strengthens collaboration and enhances the experiences we create together.We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, including those from historically underrepresented communities, as we seek to attract talent from diverse backgrounds across all levels of our organization.Local Projects is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination based on sex, age, race, color, creed, national origin, alienage, religion, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, citizenship, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All applicants will receive consideration for employment based solely on qualifications, experience, and business needs.