Role Overview for VP, Corporate Controller with a Public Software Company – Seattle, WA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, high-growth public software company in Seattle, WA, in their search for a visionary and strategic VP, Corporate Controller. This is a critical leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and serving as a key member of the finance leadership team. The VP, Corporate Controller will be the principal authority on all accounting matters, responsible for the integrity of the company’s financial statements and the effectiveness of its internal control environment.
As the VP, Corporate Controller, you will oversee all aspects of the global accounting function, including SEC reporting, technical accounting, global consolidation, revenue recognition, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and tax compliance. You will lead a talented team of accounting professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, accuracy, and continuous improvement. This position requires a hands-on yet strategic leader who can thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You will be instrumental in scaling our accounting operations to support the company’s continued global expansion and evolving business needs. Your expertise will be crucial in navigating complex accounting issues, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements, and providing insightful financial information to support executive decision-making. If you are an experienced CPA with a strong background in public company accounting within the software industry and a passion for building and leading high-performing teams, we encourage you to apply for this exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on a leading technology firm.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Corporate Controller with a Public Software Company – Seattle, WA
The VP, Corporate Controller will have a broad range of responsibilities, encompassing the full spectrum of accounting and financial reporting. Success in this role requires a meticulous and proactive approach to the following duties:
- SEC Reporting and Compliance: Lead the preparation and filing of all SEC documents, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and proxy statements. Ensure all filings are accurate, timely, and compliant with SEC regulations and GAAP. Oversee the preparation of the MD&A, financial statements, and footnotes. Manage the external review and audit process for all public filings.
- Technical Accounting Leadership: Serve as the company’s primary expert on complex technical accounting matters. Research, evaluate, and document the accounting implications of new business initiatives, M&A, and other complex transactions. Proactively monitor and implement new accounting pronouncements from the FASB and SEC, ensuring the company is prepared for future changes in U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- Global Accounting Operations: Direct and oversee all global accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and treasury functions. Manage the global month-end, quarter-end, and year-end financial close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Drive improvements to shorten the close cycle while enhancing quality.
- Internal Controls and SOX Compliance: Own and maintain the company’s internal control framework. Ensure compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX 404), including documentation, testing, and remediation of control deficiencies. Act as the primary liaison with internal and external auditors to coordinate SOX testing and the annual financial audit.
- Team Leadership and Development: Build, lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global accounting team. Set clear goals and expectations, provide regular feedback and coaching, and foster a collaborative and positive work environment. Promote professional development and create opportunities for career growth within the team.
- Financial Systems and Process Improvement: Drive initiatives to improve and automate accounting processes and systems. Partner with IT and other departments to optimize the use of the company’s ERP system (e.g., NetSuite, SAP) and other financial tools to enhance efficiency, control, and scalability.
- M&A and Strategic Projects: Support the corporate development team on M&A activities, including financial due diligence and post-acquisition integration of accounting functions. Lead and participate in other special projects as directed by the CFO.
- Tax and Treasury Collaboration: Partner closely with the Tax and Treasury departments to ensure accurate financial data for tax compliance and provision, as well as to support cash management and forecasting activities.
Requirements for the VP, Corporate Controller with a Public Software Company – Seattle, WA
We are seeking a candidate with a proven track record of success in senior accounting roles within a public company environment. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
- Education and Certification: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory. An MBA or other advanced degree is a plus.
- Professional Experience: A minimum of 15 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 5-7 years in a Corporate Controller or Assistant Controller role at a publicly traded company. A strong foundation in public accounting (Big 4 experience) is highly preferred.
- Industry Expertise: Significant experience in the software or SaaS industry is required. A deep understanding of subscription-based revenue models and related accounting (ASC 606) is essential.
- Technical Accounting Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting requirements, and SOX 404 compliance. Demonstrated experience in researching and documenting complex accounting issues such as stock-based compensation, business combinations, and lease accounting.
- Leadership and Management Skills: Proven ability to lead, manage, and motivate a diverse, global accounting team. Must be a strong mentor and coach with a history of developing talent.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. The ability to articulate complex accounting concepts to non-accountants and to collaborate effectively with senior executives, board members, and external partners.
- Systems Acumen: Hands-on experience with large-scale ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle). A demonstrated ability to leverage technology to improve accounting processes.
- Strategic Mindset: Must be a strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The ability to operate at both the strategic and tactical levels is critical. High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and quality.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in its employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial security. As a key leader, you can expect:
- Competitive Compensation: A highly competitive base salary, an annual performance-based bonus, and a significant equity package (RSUs) to ensure you share in the company’s success.
- Comprehensive Health & Wellness: A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company. Access to mental health resources, wellness programs, and a flexible spending account (FSA).
- Retirement Planning: A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you save for the future.
- Generous Paid Time Off: A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to company-paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
- Professional Development: A dedicated budget for continuous learning, including professional certifications, conferences, and workshops to support your career growth.
- Parental Leave: Comprehensive paid parental leave for new parents.
- Additional Perks: Commuter benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and a modern, collaborative office environment in the heart of Seattle.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a results-oriented accounting leader who meets the qualifications and is ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role with an industry leader, we want to hear from you.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. For more information or to explore other opportunities, please visit the JRG Partners’ Accounting & Finance practice page. Our team looks forward to connecting with you and discussing how this role aligns with your career aspirations.
