What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Controller position at Chesapeake Search Partners?
A growing organization is seeking an Assistant Controller to support its finance and accounting operations. This role partners closely with senior finance leadership to ensure accurate financial reporting, maintain strong internal controls, and support informed business decision-making. The Assistant Controller will play a hands-on role in day-to-day accounting activities, financial close processes, and ongoing improvements to financial systems and processes.
This position is well-suited for a detail-oriented CPA who thrives in a collaborative environment and is interested in long-term growth within a finance organization.
Role Overview
The Assistant Controller is responsible for overseeing core accounting functions and supporting the integrity of the organization’s financial operations. This individual will help ensure timely and accurate financial reporting, contribute to process improvements, and assist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis initiatives.
The role involves full-cycle accounting responsibilities and active participation in enhancing financial infrastructure, including supporting enterprise accounting or ERP system implementations. Over time, the position offers the opportunity to expand responsibilities and develop into a broader leadership role.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations
- Manage general ledger activities and support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes
- Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP
- Oversee account reconciliations, journal entries, and maintenance of accounting records
- Support external audits and tax compliance activities, coordinating with external advisors as needed
- Maintain and strengthen internal controls within a high-volume transaction environment
Systems & Process Improvement
- Support the evaluation and implementation of ERP or accounting systems
- Identify opportunities to improve accounting workflows, internal controls, and reporting efficiency
- Assist with automation initiatives and enhancements to data accuracy and consistency
- Learn and leverage business systems to better align finance with operations
Leadership & Cross-Functional Support
- Initially operate as an individual contributor, with future oversight of accounting functions such as Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Billing
- Provide guidance and support to accounting staff as the function scales
- Partner with operations, leadership, and other stakeholders to ensure accurate financial data flow
Financial Analysis & Business Support
- Analyze cost drivers such as labor, materials, equipment, and third-party services
- Support pricing analysis, estimates, and financial modeling activities
- Deliver insights to improve profitability and support planning and decision-making
Relationship Management
- Act as a key finance contact for banking partners, insurance providers, and external advisors
- Build effective working relationships across the organization
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field
- 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience with ownership of general ledger and close processes
- Experience in privately held organizations preferred
- Public accounting experience is a plus
- CPA preferred
- Background in high-volume or operationally complex environments preferred
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of GAAP and accounting best practices
- Advanced Excel skills
- Experience working with ERP or accounting systems; implementation experience preferred
- Ability to learn new financial and operational systems quickly
- Experience supporting tax and audit preparation
Professional Attributes
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-oriented approach
- High level of professionalism, sound judgment, and attention to detail
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Collaborative style with the ability to work effectively with senior leadership
Salary : $120,000 - $140,000