As a Corporate Controller at Luminai, your primary responsibilities will include providing technical accounting guidance, leading financial reporting processes, overseeing general ledger activities, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. You'll also be involved in designing the company's financial systems and preparing internal reports to support strategic decision-making.

To qualify for the Corporate Controller position at Luminai, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance and hold a CPA. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in accounting and finance operations, preferably in high-growth SaaS or AI environments, is required. Experience with Big 4 public accounting will be a strong advantage.

Luminai is committed to supporting the professional development of its Corporate Controller by offering opportunities to build and mentor a high-performing accounting team and allowing involvement in strategic financial decisions. The role will also encourage participation in shaping the company’s financial infrastructure and implementing ERP systems, providing valuable experience in leadership and innovation.

Essential skills for a successful Corporate Controller at Luminai include deep technical accounting knowledge, familiarity with ASC 606 and SaaS metrics, strong ERP system understanding, and excellent communication skills. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to lead through ambiguity and have a proven track record of scaling accounting operations.

The work culture at Luminai is vibrant and dynamic; it values curiosity, ownership, and velocity. The team collaborates closely, and in this hybrid position, employees work in-office three days a week to foster teamwork and innovation while adapting to a fast-paced AI startup environment.

In approaching the month-end close process as a Corporate Controller, I prioritize organization and communication. I ensure that all team members understand their roles and deadlines while staying on top of journal entries and reconciliations to achieve accurate reporting in a timely manner.

My experience with ASC 606 has equipped me to manage revenue recognition effectively. I understand how this standard changes the way revenue is recognized and reported for SaaS companies like Luminai. This includes applying the five-step model to ensure compliance and providing insightful financial analysis.

To lead a high-performing accounting team, I focus on clear communication, setting expectations, and encouraging continuous learning. I promote an environment of collaboration and mentorship, where team members feel empowered to share ideas and take ownership of their responsibilities.

In managing federal and state tax compliance, I establish standard operating procedures to monitor deadlines and ensure accurate filings. I stay informed about the latest regulations and collaborate with tax advisors to mitigate risks and optimize our tax strategies effectively.

I've successfully led ERP implementations in my previous roles, where I engaged with stakeholders to document requirements, customize modules, and ensure proper migration of data. My hands-on approach involved training team members to maximize the efficiency of the new system once launched.

The biggest challenge for a Corporate Controller in a fast-growing startup like Luminai is effectively scaling the finance function while developing robust processes amidst rapid change. It’s essential to remain agile and adaptable while establishing the foundational infrastructure needed for sustained growth.

To communicate complex financial data to non-financial stakeholders, I simplify the information using clear visuals and relatable examples. I focus on the implications of the data rather than the technical details, ensuring that everyone understands the financial position and strategic direction.

Mentorship is a cornerstone of my leadership style. I believe in fostering the talent within my team, offering guidance, sharing experiences, and helping individuals grow professionally. This creates a culture of continuous improvement and high performance.

A tough financial decision I faced was during a period of budget cuts. I had to analyze each department's spending and prioritize projects based on their potential return on investment. This required careful consideration, balancing long-term strategy against immediate financial realities.

To ensure accuracy in financial reporting, I implement a rigorous review process that includes multiple checks and balances. I emphasize the importance of attention to detail among my team and leverage technology to automate certain aspects of reporting, minimizing human error and improving accuracy.