Controller

Position Title: Controller

Location: Prior Lake, Minnesota

Compensation: $210K-$245K depending on experience

About the Job:

Lakeside HR Group has been engaged by our client to recruit for a Controller to join their Finance leadership team. This is a rare opportunity to step into a highly visible role where your expertise will not only shape financial strategy but also directly support an organization that values community, giving back, and long-term impact.

As Controller, you will oversee all accounting, reporting, and compliance functions while guiding financial strategy, cash flow management, and balance sheet optimization. You’ll lead a team of talented accounting professionals, drive efficiency through automation and process improvements, and collaborate across departments to ensure financial strength and operational excellence.

What makes this opportunity unique is the culture you’ll step into being one that’s collaborative, forward-thinking, and people-focused. This is an environment where your voice is heard, your contributions matter, and your career growth is actively supported.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Management & Reporting:

• Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and audits.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and year-end closes with accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage treasury functions, reconciliations, and daily cash monitoring.
• Ensure GAAP-compliant financial statements and reporting.
• Deliver clear, actionable financial insights and key performance metrics to executives and the board.
• Partner with Business Intelligence to drive budgeting and forecasting processes.

Internal Controls & Compliance:

• Develop and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard assets.
• Manage audits and ensure timely resolution of findings.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax codes, and all applicable financial regulations.
• Oversee asset management, risk controls, and inventory processes.

Efficiency & Innovation:

• Champion automation, technology, and process improvements to improve accuracy and speed.
• Implement systems that enable near real-time financial reporting.
• Partner across departments to ensure financial data is consistent, accurate, and accessible.

Leadership:

• Build and inspire a collaborative, high-performing team of professionals.
• Provide mentorship, coaching, and career development support.
• Model values-driven leadership and accountability.
• Foster an environment of engagement, inclusion, innovation, and trust.

Qualifications:

• 10 years of progressive financial leadership experience, with at least 5 years in senior management.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field required; Master’s preferred.
• Deep knowledge of GAAP, accounting principles, and financial regulations.
• Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Proven experience with ERP/financial system implementations.
• Strong communicator with ability to influence executives and boards.
• Demonstrated success driving automation and process improvements within accounting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• CPA strongly preferred.
• Experience in gaming, hospitality, entertainment, or related industries.
• A proven track record as a collaborative, people-first leader with strategic agility.
• Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.

Why You'll Love this Role:

• Incredible Benefits: From low-cost medical and dental plans to retirement contributions, tuition reimbursement, and generous parental leave, the benefits go above and beyond. Wellness programs, fitness discounts, and family-friendly perks add even more value.
• Giving Back Matters Here: Volunteer time is encouraged and built into the culture, allowing you to support the community while honoring a tradition of giving.
• Room to Grow: With career opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development, this role is designed to prepare you for the next step in your career.
• A Collaborative, Fun Team: You’ll be part of a finance team that values transparency, teamwork, and open communication, in an environment where innovation is welcomed and ideas are heard.
• Unique Industry Exposure: You’ll gain experience across a vast range of industries and services offering a portfolio of learning few finance leaders encounter.

About Lakeside HR Group:

At Lakeside HR Group, we understand that finding the right job is essential for your career success. We are a boutique-style human resources consulting and recruiting firm dedicated to providing personalized, tailored solutions. When you partner with us, you are not just getting a recruiter; you are getting the entire Lakeside team working together to support your career goals. Partner with us at Lakeside HR Group, where we are more than just a recruiting firm; we are your partners in achieving your career aspirations.