SVP, Controller

Barkley•Kansas City, MO

17h

About The Position

The SVP, Controller is responsible for overseeing all accounting operations and financial reporting for the agency. This role ensures accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across financial processes while supporting leadership with clear insights into agency performance, client profitability, and cash flow. The ideal candidate understands the nuances of media and advertising finance, including client billing, media payables, and accounting for various types of revenue streams, including project-based, retainer, commission and technology fees. Reports to the CFO and will have direct reports.

Requirements

Excellent verbal, and written communications skills
Ability to work in a fast pace, high energy environment to support our growing business
Experience scaling finance operations in a growing organization
Possesses a strong work ethic and initiative with a mindset of accountability and ownership
Ability to solve problems and handle complex details
Independent judgment and takes initiative in absence of specific directions
Proficient in various accounting, financial and MRP/ERP software use
Familiarity with media buying platforms such as Mediaocean and Strata
Bachelor's degree in accounting or business administration
10+ years cost/managerial accounting experience in a manufacturing environment, with advertising experience preferable

Nice To Haves

Master’s or MBA preferred
Certified Public Accountant or Certified Management Accountant designations a plus

Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and month-end close
Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP
Partner with Legal and Client Finance to review client contractual terms and scopes of work to ensure appropriate accounting of revenue recognition methodology
Ensure timely and accurate revenue recognition, including client retainers, project-based fees, and media commissions
Responsible for managing the month-end closing activities, including variance analysis and monthly reconciliation of balance sheet accounts.
Ensure accruals/reserves are sufficient and review of spend for correctness and appropriateness of classification.
Oversee and manage the balance sheet, including account reconciliations. Monitor risks associated with ageing balances for A/R, A/P, unbilled media and other key accounts. Advise of provision requirements as necessary.
Oversee client billing processes, including media billing, pass-through costs, and reconciliations
Ensure compliance with match pay and sequential liability
Manage and track cash balances, including reconciliation of client and agency cash balances on a monthly basis
Work closely with Human Resources to ensure payroll and benefits are accurate and paid timely.
Develop and implement policies/procedures in support of and consistent with Company Objectives.
Maintain and improve internal controls to safeguard company assets
Ensure compliance with tax filings, audits, and regulatory requirements
Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, and banking partners
Manage annual audit with external audit firm
Responsible for maintaining a relationship with the Company’s lending bank, including the management and review quarterly bank covenant calculations
Own and optimize financial systems and tools (ERP, billing systems, time tracking, etc.)
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of financial processes
Support system implementations or upgrades as the agency grows
Manage and mentor accounting staff, fostering a high-performing finance team
Collaborate closely with leadership, operations, media, and client service teams
Act as a trusted financial advisor to senior leadership