Controller

Description We are looking for a Controller to join a growing organization in Chicago, Illinois in a contract capacity with the potential to become permanent. This position will lead core accounting operations, provide accurate and timely financial reporting, and serve as a key partner to leadership on cash planning, performance analysis, and financial decision-making. The role is well suited for a hands-on, detail-oriented accounting specialist who is comfortable operating in a fast-moving environment and working closely with executives, auditors, lenders, and private equity stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

• Drive the monthly close cycle from start to finish, ensuring financial results are completed accurately and on a consistent timeline.

• Manage the annual audit process by coordinating deliverables, preparing supporting schedules, and addressing auditor questions with well-documented responses.

• Produce and evaluate monthly and quarterly reporting materials for private equity stakeholders, highlighting performance and key financial trends.

• Analyze differences between actual results and budget or forecast expectations, then communicate the underlying business drivers to leadership.

• Strengthen the accounting function by introducing better workflows, refining controls, and recommending practical process or system enhancements.

• Supervise and mentor accounting support staff responsible for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll-related activities.

• Maintain weekly and monthly cash forecasts, identifying upcoming liquidity concerns and escalating funding needs in advance.

• Review payment requests for accuracy, completeness, and proper approval before disbursement.

• Oversee retirement plan compliance and payroll administration, while partnering with external consultants as needed during transitional support periods.

• Collaborate with teams across finance, operations, and sales to support budgeting, forecasting, and ad hoc financial analysis. Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, with prior exposure to private equity-backed environments preferred.

• Background in audit coordination, lender reporting, and technical accounting matters is highly valued.

• Experience leading, developing, or mentoring accounting team members.

• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and sound understanding of accounting controls and reporting standards.

• Advanced Excel capabilities and familiarity with accounting or ERP platforms.

• Clear communication skills with the ability to work directly with executives, auditors, lenders, and investors.

• Comfortable taking ownership in a lean, high-accountability finance setting; experience using AI tools to improve efficiency is a plus.

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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