Controller

BuzzClan LLC•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Controller will lead the organization’s accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance functions. This role requires a hands-on accounting leader with strong statutory accounting and insurance industry experience who can independently manage day-to-day financial operations, regulatory reporting, audits, and internal controls in a fully onsite environment. The ideal candidate will have prior experience working within insurance, fraternal benefit organizations, or regulated financial services environments and possess deep knowledge of statutory accounting principles (SAP), GAAP reporting, and Illinois insurance regulatory requirements. Experience with Sage 50 accounting software is highly preferred.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
7–10+ years of progressive accounting experience.
Minimum of three years of leadership or supervisory experience.
Strong experience in: Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP), GAAP financial reporting, Regulatory reporting, Audit management, Internal controls
Experience working in: Insurance companies, Fraternal benefit organizations, Financial services organizations
Strong understanding of insurance accounting and compliance requirements.
Ability to work fully onsite in Illinois.

Nice To Haves

CPA certification strongly preferred.
Experience with Sage 50 Accounting
Experience with Sovos or compliance reporting platforms
Experience with insurance regulatory filings
Experience with Investment accounting
Experience with Pension/annuity accounting
Experience in nonprofit or membership-based organizations is a plus.

Responsibilities

Oversee all accounting operations including general ledger, reconciliations, month-end close, and financial reporting.
Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP).
Manage cash flow, banking activity, and investment accounting functions.
Review journal entries, trial balances, payroll transactions, pension payments, annuity calculations, and claims-related accounting.
Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
Prepare and support statutory financial reporting and filings required by the Illinois Department of Insurance.
Ensure compliance with insurance regulatory requirements and audit standards.
Coordinate external audits, regulatory examinations, and internal audit activities.
Maintain proper financial documentation and compliance records.
Develop and maintain strong internal controls and accounting procedures.
Monitor banking safeguards including positive pay, payment authorization, and fraud prevention controls.
Ensure financial accuracy, integrity, and confidentiality of organizational assets and records.
Supervise and mentor accounting staff.
Collaborate with executive leadership, auditors, banks, investment advisors, and external vendors.
Support strategic financial decision-making and organizational planning.