Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Ascend is a dynamic platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while accessing top-tier resources. The Outsourced Controller will manage the accounting function for a portfolio of client companies, overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls while mentoring staff and contributing to departmental strategy.
Responsibilities
- Own full-cycle monthly close and financial statement preparation for a portfolio of clients, functioning as their embedded Controller
- Set and enforce the close calendar, proactively resolving issues that threaten timely delivery, and lead recurring month-end review meetings with clients
- Serve as the primary point of accountability for client, staff, and partner communication and follow-through
- Design and implement internal control frameworks tailored to each client, identifying and remediating weaknesses proactively
- Lead clients through financial statement audits, ensuring accurate, audit-ready year-end close and account analysis
- Own the budgeting process for clients — building budgets, monitoring actuals against plan, and advising leadership on variances and corrective action
- Provide advisory and technical expertise across tax service delivery, purchase accounting (including M&A transaction support), and payroll advisory, including payroll tax compliance and research
- Recruit, train, and develop staff and seniors, building bench strength across the department
- Contribute to departmental strategy and high-level decision-making as the practice grows
Skills
- 5+ years accounting/finance leadership experience in public accounting, industry, or a combination of both
- 2+ years of experience training and supervising staff
- Must have prior experience working with clients across various industries, including, but not limited to, manufacturing, nonprofit organizations, and SaaS (Software as a Service) companies. The ability to understand and navigate the unique accounting, compliance, and advisory needs of each sector is essential to success in this role
- Proficiency across multiple accounting platforms including QuickBooks Online, Bill.com, NetSuite, and similar tools
- BA/BS degree in accounting or equivalent from an accredited university
- Capable of working in a demanding, deadline-driven environment either independently or within a team dynamic while effectively managing unexpected issues and/or questions in a professional manner
- Licensed and currently active CPA
- Master's degree in accounting or equivalent
- Prior CAAS background. The ideal candidate will come from an established Accounting and Advisory Services department
- Experience building and growing an offshore team
Benefits
- Flexible PTO
- Excellent Voluntary Insurance Options
- 401(k) Matching
- Discretionary Bonus
- Commitment to Professional Development
- Meaningful work that makes a difference in our clients' lives
- Tuition reimbursement for advanced education
Company Overview