Onboarding Controller - BELAY

Job purpose  

The Onboarding Controller establishes the accounting foundation for long-term client success by leading new clients through a structured onboarding process. This role assesses and organizes financial records, resolves complex accounting issues, develops scalable accounting processes, and prepares clients for a seamless transition to the recurring accounting team. The Onboarding Controller combines technical accounting expertise, project management, and client consultation to deliver accurate financial information and an exceptional onboarding experience.

Essential Functions

As a BELAY Corporate Team member, you will professionally represent the company in all virtual and in-person interactions. You are expected to exemplify our mission, vision, and core values while fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
As a BELAY Corporate Team member, you will professionally represent the company in all virtual and in-person interactions. You are expected to exemplify our mission, vision, and core values while fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.

• Lead multiple client onboarding engagements, managing project timelines, milestones, deliverables, and expectations.
• Serve as the primary client contact throughout onboarding, providing clear updates and coordinating access to required systems, documentation, and financial information.
• Assess clients’ accounting records, processes, and reporting needs to develop prioritized onboarding and clean-up plans.
• Lead accounting clean-up activities, including historical reconciliations, transaction classification, prior-period corrections, and resolution of incomplete or inaccurate records.
• Review balance sheet accounts, charts of accounts, financial statements, and supporting documentation to identify and resolve discrepancies.
• Develop and document scalable accounting processes that support an accurate and efficient monthly close.
• Prepare and present initial financial reports, incorporate client feedback, and confirm reporting accuracy.
• Coordinate with bookkeeping and other internal teams to resolve accounting issues and ensure onboarding work meets established standards.
• Identify project risks, scope concerns, and timeline changes, escalating issues to leadership when appropriate.
• Prepare transition documentation and transfer knowledge to the recurring accounting team to support a seamless client handoff.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Six or more years of progressive accounting experience.
• Experience managing financial close processes, account reconciliations, and complex accounting clean-up activities.
• Experience leading client onboarding, accounting implementation, or historical clean-up engagements.
• Experience preparing, reviewing, and explaining financial statements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple client engagements and meet competing deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with QuickBooks Online, Fathom, Shopify, Cin7, Amazon, or comparable platforms.
• Experience migrating accounting systems, integrating third-party applications, or implementing accounting technology.
• Experience supporting small or mid-sized businesses across multiple industries.
• Experience supporting inventory-based, e-commerce, project-based, or technology-focused businesses.
• Experience transitioning clients from onboarding or implementation to ongoing accounting support.
• Familiarity with budgeting, forecasting, financial KPIs, and tax concepts.

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced knowledge of accounting principles, financial statements, reconciliations, and close processes.
• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong client consultation and relationship management skills.
• Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong project management, organization, and time management skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple engagements and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
• Ability to make informed decisions when information is incomplete or evolving.
• Ability to learn new technologies and adapt to changing business needs.

Working Conditions

BELAY is a remote-first organization. This role requires a dedicated home office, regular use of virtual collaboration tools, and a work schedule that aligns with business needs and BELAY's core collaboration hours. Occasional travel or flexibility outside standard business hours may be required based on the role.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use.
• Frequent participation in virtual meetings.
• Ability to communicate effectively through video conferencing, email, and phone.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Direct Reports

None

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Responsibilities may change from time to time based on business needs, and team members may be assigned additional duties as needed.

Equal Employment Opportunity

BELAY is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. 

For Recruiter Only:

Salary Range: $60,000 - $85,000

Location Requirements:

This role is remote within the U.S. However, due to employment and tax compliance considerations, we are currently unable to hire employees in the following states: California, New York, Illinois, Oregon.