Controller

As a Controller at Swiftwick, your primary responsibilities will include overseeing the entire month-end close process, managing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. You'll also manage payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and collaborate with auditors. Your role extends to financial planning, budgeting, and improving accounting policies, playing a vital part in our financial success.

To be a Controller at Swiftwick, you should have a B.S. in accounting, with a master's degree and CPA license strongly preferred. Ideally, you should also have over 8 years of experience in consumer or retail industries, managing financial processes within organizations that manufacture physical goods. Proficiency in Quickbooks and payroll platforms is essential.

Candidates for the Controller position at Swiftwick should have extensive experience with Quickbooks and Excel. Familiarity with payroll platforms like Paylocity is ideal, along with prior experience with ERP systems such as Acctivate. This experience will significantly contribute to managing the company's financial and accounting processes effectively.

The Controller at Swiftwick plays a key role in HR by overseeing benefits administration and key HR processes. You will work alongside external brokers on new hire paperwork and termination processes, and ensure smooth payroll management. Additionally, you will provide support for recruiting activities and enhance the overall employee experience within the organization.

As a Controller at Swiftwick, you can expect a robust benefits package, including 20 days of PTO, paid maternity/paternity leave, health, dental, and vision insurance options, and a 401(k) plan with 4% company matching. Other perks include a wellness stipend, volunteer time off, and discounts on Swiftwick products, ensuring a positive work-life balance.

When discussing your experience with month-end close processes, highlight specific examples where you efficiently managed the close timeline, ensured accuracy, and addressed any discrepancies. Discuss tools and methodologies you used, emphasizing your attention to detail and ability to collaborate with other departments to gather required data.

To ensure compliance with accounting regulations and standards, I stay updated on relevant tax laws and GAAP standards. I have established procedures that include regular audits and reconciliations, as well as maintaining open communication with external auditors. Providing training and resources to team members also helps to ensure everyone is aware of compliance requirements.

In my past roles, I've used forecasting models to predict cash flow trends and identified key cash flow drivers. I regularly review payment cycles and implement strategies to optimize collections and payments. Collaborating with departments to align budgets with cash flow needs is also crucial to maintaining healthy liquidity.

I support annual budgeting processes by gathering input from different departments to develop a comprehensive financial plan. I analyze historical data, forecast revenue and expenses, and assess potential risk factors. I find that involving key stakeholders ensures buy-in and provides valuable insights that enhance the accuracy of the budget.

In my previous roles, I've managed payroll processes using platforms like Paylocity and ADP. I ensure accurate and timely processing while overseeing compliance with labor laws and tax regulations. Additionally, I conduct regular audits to resolve discrepancies and streamline payroll processes for efficiency.

I’ve improved accounting policies by conducting a thorough review of existing procedures. Based on best practices and regulatory changes, I’ve implemented more efficient workflows and reinforced training for staff. This engagement has not only streamlined operations but has also fostered a culture of continuous improvement within the team.

My experience with financial analysis involves conducting regular reviews to identify trends and variances. I prepare reports for leadership that highlight key performance indicators and inform strategic decisions. Utilizing various financial modeling techniques ensures that my analysis is data-driven and actionable.

I manage relationships with external auditors through open communication and timely provision of necessary documentation. I ensure that I address their inquiries quickly and accurately, which helps to facilitate a smooth audit process. Building rapport with auditors also encourages valuable feedback that can enhance our financial practices.

I adopt a collaborative leadership style that emphasizes empowerment and open communication. I believe in setting clear expectations while allowing my direct reports the autonomy to take ownership of their responsibilities. Regular check-ins help guide their progress and foster a culture of support and growth.

I am drawn to the Controller position at Swiftwick because of the company's commitment to performance and innovation in the endurance sports industry. I admire Swiftwick's strong values and community focus, and I am eager to contribute my financial expertise to a purpose-driven organization that aligns with my passion for high-performance athletics.