Financial Controller Job Description Template (Free, 2026)

Job Title: Financial Controller [Controller / Senior Controller / VP Controller] Department: Finance & Accounting Location: [City, State] / Hybrid / Remote Reports To: CFO / VP Finance / CEO Employment Type: Full-Time About [Company Name] [Company Name] is a [stage] company with [$X] in annual revenue and [X] employees. We operate [in one / across multiple] legal entities and report under [US GAAP / IFRS]. The finance team is [X] people strong and is scaling to support our next phase of growth. About the Role We are looking for a Financial Controller to own the accounting function and ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of our financial statements. You will manage the monthly close, oversee the accounting team, maintain internal controls, lead the external audit relationship, and partner with the CFO on financial reporting. This is a hands-on leadership role for a detail-oriented professional who can build scalable accounting processes while maintaining rigorous standards. Key Responsibilities • Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close cycle; target close within [X] business days • Prepare and review financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) in accordance with [US GAAP / IFRS] • Manage and develop an accounting team of [X] staff accountants, AP/AR specialists, and payroll coordinator • Maintain and strengthen internal controls; ensure SOX-readiness [if applicable] or equivalent control framework • Lead the annual audit process with [Big 4 / regional firm]; serve as primary auditor contact • Oversee AP, AR, payroll, and expense reporting processes; drive automation and efficiency improvements • Partner with FP&A on budget-to-actual variance analysis and board-ready financial packages • Manage technical accounting issues including revenue recognition (ASC 606), lease accounting (ASC 842), and equity accounting • Oversee tax compliance in partnership with external tax advisors (federal, state, international if applicable) • Lead ERP optimization and accounting systems projects; current system: [NetSuite / QuickBooks / SAP] Required Qualifications • 7+ years of progressive accounting experience including 2+ years in a controller or senior accounting leadership role • CPA license strongly preferred (active or inactive) • Deep knowledge of US GAAP; IFRS exposure a plus for international companies • Hands-on experience with [NetSuite / QuickBooks / SAP / Sage — specify your ERP] • Proven ability to manage external audits and maintain strong auditor relationships • Experience managing and developing accounting teams of [X]+ people Nice to Have • Big 4 or regional public accounting background (3+ years) • Experience at a high-growth SaaS or PE-backed company • Revenue recognition expertise under ASC 606 for subscription businesses • Experience supporting a first-time audit, IPO readiness, or financing process What We Offer • Salary: $100,000 – $175,000/year (see benchmarks below) • Health, dental, and vision insurance • Flexible PTO and [X] paid holidays • CPA CPE reimbursement and professional development budget • Remote-friendly / hybrid schedule • Equity / stock options (if applicable) • Clear path to VP Finance or CFO as the company scales Salary Range: $100,000 – $175,000/year (US, 2026 benchmark; exact offer based on company size and scope) [Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team.