Assistant Controller

Chesapeake Search Partners has been engaged by a regional residential and commercial services organization to identify an Assistant Controller to join its Baltimore-based operations. This individual will support the organization’s financial operations, partnering closely with the CFO and senior leadership to ensure accurate reporting, maintain strong internal controls, and contribute to strategic decision-making. The role is hands-on, with responsibility for day-to-day accounting operations, financial close processes, and driving improvements across financial systems, including the implementation of a new ERP/accounting platform. This fully on-site position is well-suited for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a collaborative, relationship-driven environment and is interested in growing into a senior leadership role.

Description:

The Assistant Controller will play a key role in supporting the organization’s financial operations, working closely with the CFO and senior leadership team. This individual will be responsible for overseeing core accounting functions, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting, and maintaining strong internal controls across the organization.

This is a hands-on role with involvement in the full accounting cycle, including general ledger management, account reconciliations, and the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes. The Assistant Controller will help drive process improvements and operational efficiencies, while also supporting budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis efforts.

Additionally, this position will take an active role in enhancing the company’s financial infrastructure, including supporting the implementation of a new ERP/accounting system. The role requires a detail-oriented and proactive professional who can operate effectively in a collaborative, relationship-driven environment.

Over time, this individual will have the opportunity to expand their responsibilities and grow into a broader leadership role within the finance organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations

• Manage the general ledger and oversee month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate financial statements in accordance with GAAP
• Ensure timely completion of account reconciliations, journal entries, and maintenance of accounting records
• Support external audits, maintain internal controls, and coordinate with CPA firms on tax and compliance matters
• Operate effectively in a high-volume transaction environment with a strong focus on accuracy and efficiency

ERP / Systems Implementation & Process Improvement

• Lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of a cloud-based ERP/accounting system
• Streamline accounting processes, workflows, internal controls, and reporting capabilities
• Leverage and learn industry-specific systems to better integrate finance and operations
• Identify opportunities for automation and enhancements to data integrity and reporting

Leadership & Team Development

• Initially operate as an individual contributor, with a path to oversee Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, and Billing functions
• Provide guidance, training, and structure to accounting staff as the team evolves
• Partner with operations and leadership to ensure accurate financial data flow and support informed decision-making

Cost Analysis & Business Support

• Analyze cost drivers including labor, equipment, materials, and third-party services
• Support development and validation of pricing, estimates, and customer quotes
• Deliver financial insights to improve profitability and support strategic planning

Relationship Management

• Serve as a key point of contact for banks, insurance providers, and external partners
• Build strong internal relationships within a tenured, collaborative, and relationship-driven culture

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field required
• 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience, including general ledger ownership and full-cycle close
• Experience within privately held or family-owned businesses strongly preferred
• Public accounting experience is a plus
• Experience in high-volume transaction environments preferred

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and accounting best practices
• Advanced Excel skills
• Experience with ERP systems; prior involvement in system implementation highly preferred
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to industry-specific systems
• Experience preparing financial information for external tax advisors

Personal Attributes

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-oriented mindset
• High level of professionalism, maturity, and sound judgment
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical capabilities
• Collaborative and effective in working across functions and with senior leadership