Job Description

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Controller to lead accounting operations for a growing real estate and development platform operating under public-company reporting expectations. This role requires a strong public accounting foundation, deep technical expertise in GAAP, and the ability to operate within a highly scrutinized reporting environment.

The ideal candidate brings firm-side audit leadership experience, combined with in-house ownership of financial reporting, internal controls, and executive-level communication. This is a senior, high-visibility role responsible for ensuring financial accuracy, regulatory readiness, and disciplined accounting practices aligned with public-market standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee month-end and year-end close processes across multiple legal entities, ensuring timely and accurate GAAP-compliant reporting
• Prepare and review consolidated financial statements, technical schedules, and executive-level reporting packages
• Serve as the primary owner of audit readiness and execution, including direct leadership of external auditors and coordination of audit deliverables
• Design, implement, and maintain robust internal controls aligned with SOX-style compliance expectations
• Develop and enforce accounting policies, procedures, and documentation standards appropriate for a public-company environment
• Oversee general ledger activity, journal entries, account reconciliations, and complex accounting matters
• Manage intercompany accounting, fixed assets, and balance sheet integrity across a multi-entity structure
• Partner with executive leadership to provide financial insight, risk assessment, and decision support
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning with a high degree of accuracy and discipline
• Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff while driving accountability and performance
• Support system enhancements, process improvements, and scalability initiatives

Requirements

• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including service in a Controller or senior accounting leadership role
• Demonstrated ownership of external audits, either through prior employment at a Big 4 / public accounting firm, or through direct leadership of Big 4 / public accounting firm audits as an in-house accounting leader.
• Experience owning GAAP financial reporting and operation within SOX-aligned control environments
• Prior experience within real estate, construction, development, REIT, multifamily, or PE-backed platforms
• Proven ability to communicate complex financial matters clearly and confidently to executive leadership and external stakeholders
• Strong experience managing external audits, preparing technical accounting support, and operating under elevated reporting scrutiny
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required; CPA strongly preferred
• Experience with real estate accounting systems (e.g., Yardi or similar platforms) preferred
• IFRS exposure is a plus, particularly in organizations with international or publicly listed reporting requirements
• Strong leadership presence, judgment, and organizational skills

Why Join Our Client

This role offers the opportunity to step into a senior financial leadership position within a growing, well-capitalized organization operating under public-company standards. The company places a strong emphasis on accounting rigor, compliance, and disciplined execution. You’ll work closely with executive leadership, influence financial governance, and help ensure the organization’s accounting function is built to withstand external scrutiny and long-term growth.

About J.Riley Recruitment

J.Riley Recruitment is THE Veteran-Owned Business connecting Military Veterans and Top Professionals with the Best Companies. Since our founding in 2020, J.Riley Recruitment has leveraged over a decade of Talent Acquisition expertise to deliver exceptional results. Our network extends coast to coast, empowering organizations nationwide to overcome challenges and achieve success.

Built on a foundation of integrity, discipline, and precision, we bring operational excellence and adaptability to recruitment that defines top-tier organizations. By understanding our clients’ unique challenges and aligning with their goals, we deliver high-performing talent that drives mission-focused outcomes.