Controller - job 1 of 2

GHJ is looking for a Controller

WHY we get up in the morning

At GHJ we help our people and clients pursue their passions, build thriving businesses, and create a better future.

WHAT we believe

We believe that collaboration is the foundation for success. We work as a business advocate for our clients – providing personalized service and building long-term relationships to help position our clients for the future.

HOW we succeed

We are deeply committed to our core values of Bright Minds, Brave Hearts and Bold Actions and incorporate them into every aspect of our business. By living these values, we are able to meet our strategic objectives of Remaining Fiercely Independent (financial success), Meeting client demands/needs (client success), Reinforcing and expanding cultural distinction (people success).

Summary of Role:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Controller to oversee the financial operations of our CPA firm. The Controller will play a key role in ensuring financial integrity, managing budgets, and supporting strategic decision-making. This position requires a hands-on leader who can handle complex financial tasks while maintaining a focus on accuracy and compliance. As a key member of the finance team, the Controller will also continually assess and evaluate accounting processes and internal controls, collaborate with the CFO and the management team to identify and implement improvement strategies, and manage accounting staff, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the firm's accounting transactions and financial reporting. The position is a hybrid role based out of the firm’s office in Downtown Los Angeles and the role requires the Controller to be onsite at least twice a week (subject to change in the future). 

• Financial Management:
• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger management and reconciliations.
• Responsible for general ledger accounting, collections, financial reporting, annual audits, payroll, accounts payable and internal controls.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, reports, and forecasts for all internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop and manage budgets, monitor expenditures, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
•  Create, prepare and present other useful management reports to the shareholders on an as needed basis including profit center allocations, billing realization reports, and budget vs. actual analysis
• Direct the company’s accounting operations; overseeing all transactions related to the general ledger and month-end close.
• Oversee the accrual to cash accounting conversion at year-end.
• Partnership accounting including tax return lead schedule preparation.
• Compliance and Controls:
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including 1099’s, property tax statements, sales tax returns, bank compliance reporting, and financial reporting standards.
• Develop and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard company assets.
• Stay updated on changes in accounting regulations and standards relevant to CPA firms.
• Team Leadership and Development:
• Manage and mentor the accounting and finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate and fulfill requests from various stakeholders through effective prioritization and delegation.
• Ensure staff development through training and professional growth opportunities.
• Lead the recruitment and onboarding process for finance team members as needed.
• Technology and Systems:
• Oversee the implementation and optimization of accounting software and financial systems.
• Ensure data integrity and security within all financial systems.
• Leverage technology to enhance financial reporting and operational efficiency.
• Strategic Planning and Analysis:
• Provide financial insights and analysis to support the firm’s strategic initiatives.
• Collaborate with leadership to develop long-term financial plans and objectives.
• Conduct financial risk assessments and recommend mitigation strategies.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• CPA certification is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in accounting or financial management, preferably within a CPA firm or professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, tax regulations, and financial reporting standards.
• Proven experience in managing budgets, financial forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Strong analytical skills, experience working with PowerBi and the ability to grasp and interpret complex financial concepts
• Proficiency in accounting software and financial management tools.
• Experience in Microsoft Office suite/advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.
• Familiarity with Partnership accounting
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to accuracy and compliance.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Prior experience with system implementations, upgrades, or conversions is desirable.

Seven decades, overriding focus: our people and our clients.

GHJ was founded in 1953, making us one of the oldest independent firms in the Los Angeles area. Ranked as a top 20 largest accounting firm on the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Book of Lists, the firm has 22 partners and approximately 200 staff members that serve over 3,000 clients. Our firm is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the AICPA Governmental Audit Quality Center (GAQC), Public Company Accounting Oversite Board (PCAOB), the California Society of CPAs and the California Association of Nonprofits (CAN). Collaboration and maintaining strong relationships are the cornerstones of our success.

We are also an independent member of HLB International, a worldwide organization of over 250 member professional accounting firms and business advisors. This affiliation gives us access to the subject matter experts of other member firms and provides consulting and professional services in over 158 countries through its nearly 800 offices worldwide.

We offer a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Equal Employment Opportunity

GHJ is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination against any applicant or employee based on any legally-recognized basis, including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed service member status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. Our commitment to equal opportunity employment applies to all persons involved in our operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee, including Department Heads and co-workers.

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