Controller

Controller (CFO Succession Opportunity)

In-Office, St. Louis, MO

Company Overview

Our client is an established and rapidly growing HVAC company with a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. As we continue to scale, we are seeking a high-impact Controller to join our leadership team as part of a planned succession to Chief Financial Officer. This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious, growth-oriented finance professional to step into a critical role with a clear path to executive leadership.

Position Summary

The Controller will serve as a key financial leader within the organization, balancing hands-on accounting responsibilities with strategic financial planning and analysis. This role will work closely with senior management and ownership to drive financial performance, support operational growth, and help shape the company’s long-term strategy. Over time, this individual will transition into the CFO role as part of a structured succession plan.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Strategy

• Partner with ownership and senior management to develop and execute financial strategies that support growth and profitability
• Provide actionable insights through financial analysis, forecasting, and KPI tracking
• Support strategic initiatives including expansion, acquisitions, and operational improvements
• Lead budgeting and long-term financial planning processes

Accounting & Operations (Hands-On)

• Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and month-end close
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with GAAP
• Maintain and improve internal controls, policies, and procedures
• Manage cash flow, banking relationships, and financial risk

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and develop the accounting/finance team
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and growth
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, sales, and service teams

Succession & Transition

• Work closely with the current financial leader to gain institutional knowledge
• Gradually assume higher-level strategic and leadership responsibilities
• Prepare to transition into the CFO role over time

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or MBA preferred)
• 7 years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including leadership responsibility
• Experience in construction, HVAC, or a related service-based industry a plus
• Proven ability to operate both strategically and tactically in a fast-paced environment
• Strong financial modeling, analysis, and reporting skills
• Experience with ERP systems and process improvement initiatives

What We’re Looking For

• High-energy, growth-minded leader who thrives in a scaling organization
• Hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves mentality with a strategic mindset
• Strong communicator who can partner effectively with ownership and senior leadership
• Someone excited about building, improving, and leading through change
• A long-term thinker eager to grow into a CFO role