Controller and Client Advisory Manager

Berndt CPA LLC • Madison, WI

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Berndt CPA LLC is seeking a relationship-driven Controller / Client Advisory Manager to join our growing advisory and outsourced accounting practice. This position is ideal for an experienced accounting professional who enjoys helping entrepreneurial businesses strengthen their financial operations while building long-term client relationships. Whether your background is in public accounting, outsourced accounting, or private industry, this role offers the opportunity to combine technical accounting, client advisory services, leadership, and process improvement in a collaborative and people-focused environment. This is an excellent opportunity for Controllers, Assistant Controllers, Accounting Managers, Audit Managers, or experienced Outsourced Accounting professionals who enjoy variety, continuous learning, and making a meaningful impact on the businesses they serve. The Controller / Client Advisory Manager serves as the primary accounting and advisory contact for a portfolio of entrepreneurial business clients across a variety of industries. This role combines financial oversight, relationship management, process improvement, and team collaboration while helping clients improve financial visibility, strengthen internal processes, and make informed business decisions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.
• 5-10 years of accounting experience.
• Experience in public accounting, outsourced accounting, or private industry leadership.
• Experience supervising or reviewing the work of others.
• Strong understanding of financial reporting and accounting operations.
• Experience working directly with business owners or leadership teams.
• Familiarity with QuickBooks Online and other cloud-based accounting platforms.
• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional client service.

Nice To Haves

• CPA preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for a portfolio of business clients.
• Review monthly financial statements and communicate financial results with clients.
• Assist business owners with budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and KPI reporting.
• Help clients improve accounting processes and internal controls.
• Identify opportunities for automation and operational efficiencies.
• Review accounting work prepared by staff accountants.
• Ensure financial reporting is timely and accurate.
• Assist with client onboarding and accounting system implementations.
• Collaborate with tax, payroll, and advisory teams to provide comprehensive client service.
• Mentor and coach accounting staff.
• Review work and provide constructive feedback.
• Help establish best practices and improve internal processes.
• Support a collaborative, team-oriented culture.
• Build strong long-term client relationships.
• Participate in networking and community involvement.
• Support proposal opportunities and cross-selling of firm services.
• Help identify additional ways we can provide value to clients.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and bonus program
• Flex-time or full-time options with partial remote work available, depending on the candidate's preferences
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401k match)
• Supportive, people-first firm culture with regular team events
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities
• Paid time for community involvement and networking
• Modern technology and tools in a collaborative environment
• Opportunity to work closely with entrepreneurial businesses across a variety of industries
• Meaningful client relationships and strategic advisory involvement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level