Assistant Controller

We are seeking a hands-on, experienced Controller to lead all accounting and financial functions for a growing, privately owned, restaurant group. This is a hybrid role based in Durham, with 1–2 days per week in Winston-Salem for on-site collaboration with ownership and operations. This is a direct report to the CEO and Owner.

The Controller will be responsible for managing the company’s financial operations from end to end — from daily accounting and reporting through budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning. In addition to traditional controller duties, this individual will train and mentor General Managers and the Director of Operations on P&L management, budgeting, and cost control, helping to build financial literacy and accountability throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions, including A/P, A/R, payroll, reconciliations, general ledger, and month-end close.
• Prepare timely and accurate financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow).
• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process, providing ongoing variance analysis and actionable insights.
• Manage restaurant-level P&L reporting and work directly with GMs on interpreting and improving results.
• Train and support General Managers and Directors on budgeting, labor management, cost of goods, and operational controls.
• Monitor and analyze COGS, labor, and controllable expenses to drive profitability improvements.
• Develop, document, and enhance internal controls and accounting procedures.
• Support new store openings — including financial setup, vendor integration, and launch budgeting (Durham).
• Partner with ownership on financial presentations, cash management, and growth planning.
• Collaborate with external accountants on audits, tax filings, and compliance requirements.
• Identify and implement process improvements, system integrations, and automation to enhance efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred but not required).
• 5–10 years of accounting experience, ideally within multi-unit restaurant, hospitality, or retail operations.
• Solid understanding of restaurant accounting fundamentals — including food/labor cost control, inventory, and P&L management.
• Experience with Toast POS preferred, including reporting and integration with accounting platforms.
• Advanced Excel and financial analysis skills; experience with QuickBooks, Restaurant365, or similar systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills — able to explain financial data to non-financial leaders.
• Highly organized, proactive, and comfortable operating independently in a hybrid structure.
• Must reside in or near Durham, NC, and be willing to travel 1–2 days per week to Winston-Salem.