Role Overview for VP, Corporate Controller with a Public FinTech – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, publicly-traded Financial Technology (FinTech) company in their search for a dynamic and strategic VP, Corporate Controller. Based in the vibrant heart of Chicago, IL, this is a career-defining opportunity to join a fast-paced, innovative organization that is revolutionizing the financial services landscape. As a key member of the senior finance leadership team, you will report directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and assume ultimate responsibility for the integrity and accuracy of the company’s global accounting operations and financial reporting.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned accounting professional with extensive experience in a public company environment, possessing a deep understanding of SEC regulations, SOX compliance, and complex technical accounting matters. You are not just an accountant; you are a strategic business partner, a builder of high-performing teams, and a driver of process improvement. In this role, you will be instrumental in scaling our accounting function to support the company’s ambitious growth trajectory, ensuring that our financial infrastructure is robust, efficient, and compliant.
You will lead a talented team of accounting professionals and collaborate cross-functionally with leaders in FP&A, Legal, Investor Relations, and various business units. Your leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of a public FinTech environment, from intricate revenue recognition models to the rigorous demands of quarterly and annual reporting cycles.
This position demands a leader who can balance strategic oversight with a hands-on approach, ensuring meticulous accuracy while contributing to the broader financial strategy of the enterprise. If you are a proactive, results-oriented leader passionate about building world-class accounting functions in a high-growth tech environment, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Corporate Controller with a Public FinTech – Chicago, IL
As the VP, Corporate Controller, you will be entrusted with a broad range of critical responsibilities, including but not limited to:
SEC Reporting & Compliance
Oversee the entire SEC reporting process, including the accurate and timely preparation and filing of Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and proxy statements. Ensure all disclosures are in full compliance with SEC rules and U.S. GAAP standards. Manage the XBRL tagging process and stay current with evolving reporting requirements.
Internal Controls (SOX)
Lead and own the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program. This includes designing, implementing, maintaining, and testing internal controls over financial reporting. You will work closely with internal and external auditors to ensure the effectiveness of the control environment and remediate any identified deficiencies.
Technical Accounting Leadership
Serve as the company’s primary subject matter expert on all technical accounting matters. Conduct thorough research, prepare technical memos, and determine the proper accounting treatment for complex transactions such as business combinations (ASC 805), revenue recognition (ASC 606), stock-based compensation (ASC 718), leases (ASC 842), and potential digital asset considerations. Proactively monitor and implement new accounting pronouncements from the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB).
Global Financial Close Process
Manage and direct the global month-end, quarter-end, and year-end accounting close processes to ensure they are completed accurately, on time, and with a high degree of transparency. Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statement variances.
Audit Management
Act as the primary point of contact for the company’s external auditors. Meticulously plan and manage the quarterly reviews and annual financial audit, ensuring a smooth and efficient process with minimal disruption to the business.
Team Leadership & Development
Build, lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing global accounting team. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous professional development. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and create career pathing opportunities for team members.
Process Improvement & Automation
Continuously evaluate and enhance accounting processes, workflows, and systems to increase efficiency and scalability. Champion the implementation of new technologies and automation tools to streamline operations, from procure-to-pay to record-to-report.
System & ERP Oversight
Oversee the administration and optimization of financial systems, including the primary ERP system (e.g., NetSuite, Oracle, SAP). Ensure the system architecture supports the company’s reporting and control requirements.
Cross-Functional Partnership
Collaborate effectively with key stakeholders across the organization. Work closely with the FP&A team on budget vs. actual analysis, support the Investor Relations team with financial data for external communications, and partner with the Legal department on corporate governance and compliance matters.
Board & Audit Committee Reporting
Prepare and present clear, concise financial summaries and technical accounting updates to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and senior executive leadership.
Requirements for the VP, Corporate Controller with a Public FinTech – Chicago, IL
We are seeking an exceptional candidate who meets the following qualifications:
Education & Certification
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field is required. An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive accounting experience, demonstrating a clear track record of increasing responsibility.
Public Company Expertise
Significant, recent experience in a senior accounting leadership role (e.g., Corporate Controller, Assistant Controller) within a U.S. publicly-traded company is essential.
Public Accounting Foundation
Experience at a ‘Big 4’ or large national public accounting firm is strongly preferred.
Industry Background
Prior experience in the FinTech, SaaS, or broader technology industry is highly desirable and will be a significant advantage.
Technical Acumen
Deep, expert-level knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting requirements, and the COSO framework for internal controls.
Leadership Skills
Proven ability to lead, manage, and develop a diverse team of accounting professionals in a dynamic, high-growth environment. You must be an inspirational leader who can motivate and get the best out of your team.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex accounting concepts into clear and understandable terms for both financial and non-financial audiences.
Systems Proficiency
Hands-on experience with large-scale ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Oracle Financials, SAP) and proficiency with financial reporting and consolidation tools.
Strategic Mindset
A strategic thinker who can see the big picture and anticipate future business needs, while also maintaining a strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
Personal Attributes
High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation. Adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive under pressure and tight deadlines.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term equity incentive package.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and a flexible hybrid work model that combines in-office collaboration in our modern Chicago office with remote work.
Family Support
Comprehensive parental leave policies to support you and your growing family.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, and continuing education to support your career advancement.
Wellness Programs
Access to wellness resources, gym membership subsidies, and employee assistance programs.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal VP, Corporate Controller position. If you are a qualified and ambitious accounting leader who meets the criteria outlined above and is ready to make a significant impact at a leading public FinTech company, we want to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience for immediate consideration.
To apply, please use the application link on this page. To learn more about JRG Partners and to explore other opportunities in our Finance & Accounting practice, please visit our website. We look forward to reviewing your application.
