Controller

As the Controller at Convene, you'll oversee the entire financial accounting process, including general ledger management and payroll. Your role will also involve providing comprehensive financial updates to leadership, working with external CPA firms for tax reporting, and developing the budgeting framework in partnership with FP&A. Additionally, you'll be responsible for ensuring operational efficiency through the design and enforcement of financial controls, as well as leading the finance team in fostering a culture of excellence.

To be considered for the Controller role at Convene, candidates should have at least 10 years of professional accounting experience, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior-level finance position within a high-volume, multi-unit environment. A CPA certification is required, and familiarity with UK GAAP and taxation is preferred. Candidates with experience in acquisition diligence and NetSuite are also favored, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of both US and UK GAAP regulations.

The Controller plays a pivotal role in strategic decision-making at Convene by providing actionable insights and financial reports that inform high-level management decisions. This includes guiding financial strategies based on evolving economic landscapes, developing innovative payroll processes, and contributing to the design of both short- and long-term operational strategies aligned with company objectives.

Controllers at Convene enjoy competitive compensation, including a base salary ranging from $200,000 to $225,000, coupled with an annual performance bonus. Additional benefits include excellent health coverage, generous paid time off, a comprehensive 401K plan with company matching, and opportunities for professional development. The company emphasizes work-life balance and community involvement, making it a fulfilling place to grow your career.

Essential skills for the Controller role at Convene include strong leadership abilities to manage and grow the finance team, proficient financial data analysis skills to provide strategic insights, and a solid understanding of banking processes and tax regulations. Candidates should also demonstrate a strategic vision combined with hands-on execution capabilities, showcasing their ability to navigate complex projects while contributing positively to the company culture.

When answering this question, focus on specific examples that highlight your leadership in managing financial reporting practices and your role in providing insights for strategic decisions. Discuss any innovative controls you implemented and the positive impact they had on your previous company.

Demonstrate your knowledge by discussing the frameworks and processes you established for tax compliance. Highlight your experience working with CPA firms and your familiarity with both US and UK tax regulations, showing your ability to navigate complex regulatory environments.

Discuss the methodologies you use for accurate budgeting and forecasting, such as involving cross-departmental collaboration and leveraging financial analytics. Providing examples of past experiences where your budgeting strategies positively influenced outcomes will strengthen your answer.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to detail a complex financial project you managed. Emphasize your role in leading the team, any challenges you faced, and the measurable outcomes of your success.

Explain your commitment to team development through mentorship, training, and creating a collaborative culture. Provide examples of how you've previously implemented initiatives that led to professional growth within your team.

If you have direct experience, discuss how you have utilized NetSuite in previous roles, including specific functionalities you found particularly beneficial. If you're not familiar, express your willingness and ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies.

Discuss your systematic approach to preparing for financial audits, including how you ensure that documentation is organized and all employees involved are briefed. Highlight any successful audits you've managed and the results achieved.

Share examples of past initiatives you led to improve payroll efficiency and accuracy. Discuss any technology or software you implemented that transformed payroll processing and how it contributed to employee satisfaction.

Emphasize your commitment to ongoing education through industry seminars, webinars, and professional organizations. Mention specific resources you rely on to stay informed about developments in financial regulations.

Use the STAR method to structure your answer. Focus on a financial challenge relevant to the role, outline the actions you took to resolve it, and discuss the successful outcome, emphasizing your problem-solving abilities.