Controller

Controller – DeSpir Logistics

On-Site | Lisle, IL | Reports to VP of Finance | Full-Time | $115–$130K

This Isn’t Just a Job. It’s a Launchpad.

If you’re a rising finance leader who wants more than spreadsheets and closing cycles—if you’re ready to shape the financial future of a company on the move—this is the role for you.

DeSpir Logistics is rewriting what it means to lead in transportation and logistics. Based just outside of Chicago, we’re a fast-growing, full-service provider built on a culture that rewards grit, integrity, and creativity. We work hard. We play hard. And we show up for each other—because the best teams don’t just move freight. They move each other forward.

As we accelerate into our next chapter of growth, we’re looking for a Controller who wants to leave a mark. Not in the margins—but on the model. This is a newly created, high-impact leadership role designed for someone who sees beyond the numbers and into the heart of the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a small accounting team (currently 2 direct reports)
  
• Oversee the full month-end and year-end close processes
  
• Ensure accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting and statements
  
• Drive continuous improvements in financial systems, controls, and reporting
  
• Own the general ledger and all transactional accounting activities
  
• Partner closely with Operations, Sales, IT, and other departments to ensure accuracy in transactional data
  
• Manage AP/AR processes and act as point of escalation for billing and collections issues
  
• Support the budgeting process, variance analysis, and executive reporting with the VP of Finance
  
• Implement reporting improvements using Excel, Power BI, and other tools
  
• Maintain banking and treasury responsibilities including reconciliations and controls
  
• Contribute to audit preparation, compliance efforts, and SOP development
  
• Foster a strong, collaborative, and accountable culture within the finance team
  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required
  
• 7 years of progressive accounting experience
  
• At least 3 years in a senior-level or team management role
  
• Strong leadership skills and a hands-on mindset
  
• Excellent understanding of GAAP and standard accounting practices
  
• Experience with McLeod, Paylocity, QuickBooks, and Power BI strongly preferred
  
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, dashboards)
  
• Effective communicator with both financial and non-financial stakeholders
  
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  
• Excited by fast-paced environments and process optimization
  
• Values transparency, collaboration, and continuous learning
  

Location & Schedule:

• On-site in Lisle, IL
  

Team & Tools:

• Reports directly to VP of Finance
  
• Tools used: McLeod, Paylocity, QuickBooks, Excel, and Power BI
  

Culture Fit:

We’re looking for an “A-player” who thrives in fast-growth environments, values accountability, and is eager to be part of a team striving to work smarter every day and aligned with DeSpir’s values of Conscientiousness, Determination, Accountability, Vulnerability, Helpfulness, and Creativity. The right candidate is proactive, systems-oriented, and energized by building scalable infrastructure in a close-knit, collaborative team.