What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at Kuester Management Group, LLC?
Title: Controller for Kuester Commercial Real Estate Services
Location: Fort Mill, SC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
Kuester Commercial Real Estate is a vertically integrated firm building, brokering, and investing in the future of the Carolinas. We are seeking a Controller to serve as a vital link between our accounting staff and executive leadership.
The Controller will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the accounting cycle across Kuester CRE. This role requires a hands-on leader who ensures the accuracy of property-level reporting, manages complex construction draws, and supports leadership in maintaining the financial integrity of the firm. This is an ideal position for a high-performing accounting professional looking to deepen their expertise in a fast-paced, vertically integrated environment.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & General Ledger Management
- Financial Preparation: Lead the month-end and year-end closing processes. Prepare and perform a detailed review of financial statements for multiple entities, including development and holding companies.
- Accuracy & Analysis: Perform variance analysis (Actual vs. Budget) and ensure the accuracy of NOI and cash flow reporting at the property level.
- Audit Support: Assist the Asset Manager and leadership in preparing workpapers and documentation for year-end audits and tax return preparation with external CPA firms.
- Intercompany Accounting: Manage intercompany transactions and reconciliations across a multi-entity structure.
Development & Construction Accounting
- Draw Management: Support the construction draw process, including the collection of lien waivers, preparation of lender draw packages, and monitoring of capital stack funding.
- Budget Tracking: Assist in tracking development project budgets, capital expenditures, and cost-to-complete projections.
- Lender Compliance: Ensure all project-level financial reporting meets the specific requirements of construction lenders and equity partners.
Property Management & Brokerage Operations
- Operational Oversight: Review monthly rent roll reconciliations and annual CAM reconciliations. Ensure all lease terms are accurately reflected in financial reporting.
- Commission Accounting: Support the brokerage division by reviewing commission calculations and ensuring timely disbursements and revenue recognition.
- Systems Administration: Serve as a power user for Rent Manager and Avid, identifying ways to further automate accounts payable and financial reporting workflows.
Team Leadership & Internal Controls
- Staff Supervision: Supervise and mentor accounting team, providing technical guidance and ensuring deadlines are met.
- Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve internal accounting procedures to increase efficiency and data integrity.
- Internal Controls: Execute and monitor internal control policies to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance.
The Kuester Fit – Professional Competencies
- Entrepreneurial: A professional who doesn't wait for a manual but proactively identifies process gaps and bridges them.
- Curious: A desire to understand how the development side of the business impacts brokerage and property management.
- Resilient: The ability to remain organized and effective in an environment where priorities can shift as new deals are signed.
- Detail-Oriented: A commitment to the truth in the numbers, ensuring that every financial package is professional, accurate, and ready for executive review.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
- 5 years of progressive accounting experience; at least 2–3 years specifically within Commercial Real Estate or Construction.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (complex formulas, pivot tables, data modeling).
- Experience with CRE accounting software such as Rent Manager, Yardi, MRI, or AppFolio.
- Familiarity with Avid or other AP automation platforms is a significant plus.
- Working knowledge of partnership accounting, construction draw processes, and property-level financial reporting.
Why Kuester Commercial Real Estate?
We offer a competitive base salary and benefits package. This role is designed for a leader who wants a front-row seat to the entire real estate lifecycle and a career path that offers professional growth alongside a firm that is actively shaping the Carolinas.