Controller and Client Advisory Manager

Controller - Client Advisory Manager

Make an impact. Guide businesses. Grow into a trusted advisor.

Berndt CPA LLC is seeking a relationship-driven Controller / Client Advisory Manager to join our growing advisory and outsourced accounting practice. This position is ideal for an experienced accounting professional who enjoys helping entrepreneurial businesses strengthen their financial operations while building long-term client relationships.

Whether your background is in public accounting, outsourced accounting, or private industry, this role offers the opportunity to combine technical accounting, client advisory services, leadership, and process improvement in a collaborative and people-focused environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for Controllers, Assistant Controllers, Accounting Managers, Audit Managers, or experienced Outsourced Accounting professionals who enjoy variety, continuous learning, and making a meaningful impact on the businesses they serve.

Position Summary

The Controller / Client Advisory Manager serves as the primary accounting and advisory contact for a portfolio of entrepreneurial business clients across a variety of industries.

This role combines financial oversight, relationship management, process improvement, and team collaboration while helping clients improve financial visibility, strengthen internal processes, and make informed business decisions.

Description of Duties

Client Advisory

• Serve as the primary contact for a portfolio of business clients.
• Review monthly financial statements and communicate financial results with clients.
• Assist business owners with budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and KPI reporting.
• Help clients improve accounting processes and internal controls.
• Identify opportunities for automation and operational efficiencies.

Accounting Leadership

• Review accounting work prepared by staff accountants.
• Ensure financial reporting is timely and accurate.
• Assist with client onboarding and accounting system implementations.
• Collaborate with tax, payroll, and advisory teams to provide comprehensive client service.

Team Development

• Mentor and coach accounting staff.
• Review work and provide constructive feedback.
• Help establish best practices and improve internal processes.
• Support a collaborative, team-oriented culture.

Firm Growth

• Build strong long-term client relationships.
• Participate in networking and community involvement.
• Support proposal opportunities and cross-selling of firm services.
• Help identify additional ways we can provide value to clients.

Recommended Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.

• CPA preferred but not .

• 5-10 years of accounting experience.

• Experience in public accounting, outsourced accounting, or private industry leadership.

• Experience supervising or reviewing the work of others.

• Strong understanding of financial reporting and accounting operations.

• Experience working directly with business owners or leadership teams.

• Familiarity with QuickBooks Online and other cloud-based accounting platforms.

• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship management skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional client service.

Who Thrives in This Role

This role is ideal for someone who:

• Enjoys working with a variety of businesses and industries.

• Likes solving problems and improving processes.

• Wants to build trusted relationships with clients.

• Enjoys mentoring and developing team members.

• Is looking to grow beyond traditional accounting into advisory services.

What We Offer

At Berndt CPA LLC, we support our team members in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. We provide a collaborative environment where professional growth is encouraged, and personal flexibility is respected. This position offers:

• Competitive compensation and bonus program
• Flex-time or full-time options with partial remote work available, depending on the candidate's preferences
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401k match)
• Supportive, people-first firm culture with regular team events
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities
• Paid time for community involvement and networking
• Modern technology and tools in a collaborative environment
• Opportunity to work closely with entrepreneurial businesses across a variety of industries
• Meaningful client relationships and strategic advisory involvement

Awards And Recognition – Recent

• 2025 – Top Work Places – Small Business – Wisconsin State Journal

• 2025 – Best Places to Work – Small Business – Madison Magazine

• 2025 – Best Accounting Firm to Work For – Accounting Today

• 2024 – People's Choice Awards – Best Accounting Firm

• 2024 – Top Work Places – Small Business – Wisconsin State Journal

• 2024 – Best Places to Work – Small Business – Madison Magazine

• 2024 – InBusiness Executive Choice Award – Accounting Firm

• 2024 – Best Accounting Firm to Work For – Accounting Today

Ready to grow your career with a firm that invests in your success? Apply today and bring your expertise to a people-first firm that values your impact.