Controller

BANK FIRST•Manitowoc, WI

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Controller is responsible for leading the Bank's accounting and financial reporting functions while ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial information. This position oversees general accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, regulatory reporting support, audit coordination, and accounting policy governance. The Controller partners closely with SVP-Finance, executive leadership, business unit leaders, Risk Management, Compliance, Internal Audit, and external auditors to support strategic decision-making and maintain a strong control environment. The role is responsible for advancing process improvement initiatives, automation, and operational excellence across the Finance Department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Minimum 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership responsibilities.
Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, internal controls, and banking operations.
Experience overseeing month-end close, financial statement preparation, audits, and regulatory interactions.
Proven leadership, team development, and project management skills.
Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Nice To Haves

Experience within a regulated banking or financial services environment.
Experience with regulatory reporting and bank examinations.
Prior interaction with federal and state banking regulators.
Experience leading accounting system implementations, automation projects, or process transformation initiatives.
MBA, master’s in accounting, or other advanced degree.

Responsibilities

Lead the accounting and financial reporting functions, ensuring accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, regulatory requirements, and Bank First accounting policies.
Oversee month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, accounting operations, reconciliations, and financial reporting activities.
Maintain and enhance internal controls over financial reporting, including control documentation, testing support, and remediation efforts.
Coordinate internal and external audits and Finance-related compliance activities.
Provide technical accounting guidance on new products, business initiatives, acquisitions, and complex transactions.
Drive process improvements, automation initiatives, and operational efficiencies across Finance functions.
Maintain accounting policies, procedures, and governance practices that support a strong control environment.
Support Bank First's mission, values, and commitment to exceptional service while fostering a culture of operational excellence.