What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Controller position at Windward?
Windward is a global maritime intelligence company experiencing significant growth in the U.S. market. While the company's core Finance organization is based outside of the US, we are looking for a strong, experienced Controller to serve as the local finance presence in the United States — acting as an extension of our global finance function and working closely with senior U.S. business leadership.
About the Role
This role is designed for a confident, experienced Controller who can represent the finance function on the ground in the U.S. You will work directly with senior stakeholders — including Sales VPs — and must be comfortable operating independently, holding your own in the room, and driving financial rigor across the U.S. entity. The role reports to the VP Finance.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead ongoing financial reporting for the U.S. entity, in close coordination with the global Finance team
- Serve as the primary finance point of contact for senior U.S. business leaders, including Sales VPs — providing financial insight and support for business decisions
- Own financial controls, month-end/quarter-end close processes, and compliance with U.S. regulatory requirements
- Oversee and manage U.S. payroll
- Support US Benefits processes
- Work within NetSuite for entries, controls, and reporting
- Partner closely with the centralized Finance team on reporting, reconciliations, and process alignment
- Identify risks and drive improvements to internal controls within U.S. operations
- Own and implement U.S. Sales Tax processes — including nexus analysis, registration, filing, and ongoing compliance across relevant states
Requirements
- CPA (must)
- 4-6 years of experience in a Controller / senior accounting role
- Ability to work independently and confidently with senior executives; strong presence when engaging with Sales VPs and other business leaders
- Excellent communication skills; comfortable working cross-culturally with a global finance organization, flexible working hours will be needed at times.
- Working knowledge of U.S. Sales Tax rules and compliance requirements
- DC.-based to allow at least 3 days a week in the office
- Experience working with NetSuite
- Experience managing or supporting U.S. payroll
Nice to Have
- Experience in global technology companies / multi-entity corporate structures
- Active U.S. security clearance — a significant advantage