Controller

SWS Equipment•Spokane, WA

19d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Controller to join our team and play a pivotal role in driving financial success across the organization. In this leadership position, the Controller will provide expert financial guidance, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and implement process improvements to enhance organizational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of GAAP, extensive experience in accounting and finance leadership, and a hands-on approach to managing teams and financial operations. With a strong background in industries such as heavy equipment, construction, or services, the Controller will be instrumental in supporting business growth initiatives and fostering collaboration across departments to achieve our financial goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field is required; an MBA or other advanced degree is highly desirable
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation strongly preferred
In-depth knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)
Minimum of 5 years of senior leadership experience in accounting and/or finance
Background in managing within the heavy equipment, service, dealership, construction, or municipal sectors is preferred
Experience interacting with or reporting to a private company board is highly valued
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook
Strong working knowledge of business software and technology tools; intermediate-level expertise required; a familiarity with Sage Software is a plus
Hands-on leadership style with a focus on mentorship and team development
Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain reasoning and engage appropriate stakeholders
Proven ability to foster cross-functional collaboration and align strategic goals across departments
Excellent multitasking capabilities with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
Creative and innovative thinker with strong problem-solving skills
Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to high levels of accuracy
Bright, energetic professional with outstanding interpersonal skills and the highest standards of personal integrity

Nice To Haves

MBA or other advanced degree is highly desirable
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation strongly preferred
Background in managing within the heavy equipment, service, dealership, construction, or municipal sectors is preferred
Experience interacting with or reporting to a private company board is highly valued
a familiarity with Sage Software is a plus

Responsibilities

Provide strategic financial guidance by analyzing operational and financial data to support decision-making
Lead efforts to improve internal processes and drive organizational efficiency
Lead and mentor the accounting team, providing guidance on ledger activities and supporting professional development.
Develop, document and maintain accounting policies and internal controls in compliance with GAAP and ensure accessibility to relevant stakeholders.
Support business growth initiatives such as new locations, product lines, acquisitions, and new ventures
Build and maintain effective relationships with internal teams, the board, external auditors, banks, IT vendors, customers, and suppliers
Review monthly financial statements and collaborate with the CEO & Director of Finance to analyze performance against the plan and prior year
Oversee tax compliance by coordinating with tax advisors, reviewing tax returns, managing distributions, and maintaining a tax return inventory schedule
Lead the annual financial audit process and ensure timely, successful completion
Oversee general ledger and month-end close processes, maintain the close calendar, and ensure timely completion of journal entries and reconciliations
Manage the chart of accounts to support business, tax, and reporting needs
Supervise daily cash reporting and review the 13-week cash flow forecast to monitor liquidity
Oversee accounts receivable by reviewing aging reports, approving credit memos and write-offs, and maintaining effective AR processes
Ensure timely and accurate vendor payments, approve ACHs, maintain check controls, and assist with transaction coding when needed
Review and approve payroll & monthly commission calculations, ensuring accurate accruals and reconciliations.
Work with the Purchasing Specialist to safeguard inventory and ensure proper month-end valuation
Manage fixed asset accounting and tracking systems, including capitalization, depreciation and maintaining current net book values.
Manage the third-party IT vendor to ensure reliable, secure and cost-effective technology services that align with business needs