Development Controller

Chelsea Investment Corp•Carlsbad, CA

2d•$190,000 - $220,000•Onsite

About The Position

Chelsea Investment Corporation (CIC) is seeking a Development Controller to help lead the accounting function for one of California's most established affordable housing developers. Reporting directly to the CFO, this role oversees accounting operations, financial reporting, treasury, payroll oversight, and systems administration across a 350+ entity organization spanning affordable housing development, asset management, and construction. This is a rare succession opportunity. Our current Controller is planning to retire in 2027, creating the opportunity for meaningful overlap and knowledge transfer before assuming full responsibility for the role. The accounting environment is highly sophisticated and uniquely complex. Affordable housing development combines real estate, construction, tax credit finance, regulatory compliance, and multi-entity accounting in ways that differ significantly from traditional corporate accounting environments. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, building strong teams, improving systems, and serving as a trusted partner to executive leadership.

Requirements

10+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience
Experience leading accounting teams and developing staff
Significant multi-entity accounting experience (100+ entities preferred)
Real estate development, construction, affordable housing, or similarly complex environments
Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting
Exceptional communication skills and leadership presence

Nice To Haves

Sage 300 CRE experience
CPA designation
Affordable housing or LIHTC experience
Development accounting, construction draws, or tax credit finance exposure

Responsibilities

Leading all accounting operations and financial reporting across a 350+ entity structure
Maintaining the integrity of the general ledger and financial reporting systems
Budgeting, forecasting, cash management, and treasury oversight
Entity administration, banking relationships, and intercompany transactions
Serving as the primary administrator of Sage 300 CRE
Overseeing payroll review, forecasting, and multi-entity allocations
Leading and developing a seasoned accounting team
Partnering closely with the CFO on process improvements, systems optimization, and organizational growth initiatives
Helping support new entities and evolving business structures as the organization continues to grow