Controller

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Controller to lead our accounting function and help build a scalable financial infrastructure that supports The Forge Companies' continued growth. This role will oversee financial reporting, accounting operations, audits, compliance, and financial systems while partnering closely with executive leadership to enhance processes, strengthen internal controls, and deliver financial insights that drive informed business decisions. The ideal candidate is a hands-on CPA with a proven track record in high-growth environments who excels at building scalable processes, implementing financial systems, and leading teams through periods of growth and transformation.

Key Activities

Financial Statements & Reporting

• Produce accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including the Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Statement of Cash Flows.
• Ensure all financial reporting is compliant with GAAP and applicable regulatory standards.
• Prepare management reporting packages that translate financial data into clear, actionable insights for the executive team and Board.
• Conduct variance analysis to explain deviations from budget and forecast, identifying trends and risks.
• Maintain and continuously improve financial reporting processes for speed, accuracy, and transparency.

Financial Audits & Compliance

• Lead all external and internal audit activities, serving as the primary point of contact for auditors.
• Prepare and maintain all supporting schedules, work papers, and documentation required for annual audits.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax obligations, including coordinating with external tax advisors for corporate tax filings.
• Design and maintain a robust internal control environment, including documentation of policies and procedures.
• Monitor changes in accounting standards and regulatory requirements (FASB, IRS, state agencies) and implement necessary updates.

Accounting Operations

• Evaluate needs for improvements and redesign of processes, controls, reporting, and resources / staffing
• Partner to the CFO in evaluating future banking relationships and cash management

Financial Platform & Systems Setup

• Design, configure, and implement the company�s long-term accounting and financial management platform (e.g., NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Workday, or equivalent ERP).
• Establish and maintain the chart of accounts, general ledger structure, and accounting policies aligned with GAAP.
• Integrate financial systems with banking platforms, payroll providers, and other third-party tools.
• Define internal controls and accounting procedures to ensure data accuracy, security, and audit-readiness from day one.
• Evaluate and onboard additional financial tools as the business scales (expense management, AP automation, new ERP systems, etc.).

Requirements:

• 10+ of progressive accounting and finance experience
• CPA license required
• Demonstrated experience building or significantly rebuilding a financial accounting infrastructure, including system implementations.
• Deep technical knowledge of GAAP, financial statement preparation, and the month-end/year-end close process.
• Experience managing full-cycle accounts payable operations, including vendor management and payment processing.
• Proven track record leading financial audits (external and internal) as the primary management contact.
• Empathetic leader, with experience designing and building accounting teams in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Self-starter who thrives in ambiguity, takes ownership without being told, and drives results independently.

Preferred:

• Experience as a Controller or Assistant Controller in a banking, financial services, business services, and/or high-growth company.
• Experience with ERP and financial system migrations (e.g., QuickBooks to Sage Intacct, NetSuite, Workday, etc.), AP automation, expense management platforms (e.g., Ramp, Brex, Concur).
• MBA or advanced degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

Education:

• Bachelor�s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field required.
• CPA license required; active and in good standing.
• MBA or Master�s in Accounting or Finance is a plus.

Location:

• Full-time role in the office 2-3 days a week, preferably in Charlotte with flexibility for Atlanta and longer-term remote options.