Controller - Real Estate

Leading real estate and property management firm is seeking an experienced Controller to oversee all accounting operations and serve as a strategic financial partner to ownership and senior leadership. The Controller will manage a team of accounting professionals, ensure compliance with financial and tax regulations, and provide timely, accurate reporting to support business decision-making. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both technical expertise and strong management capabilities.

Responsibilities:

• Lead, supervise, and mentor the accounting department, including assistant controller, bookkeepers, accounts payable/receivable clerks, payroll administrator, and other staff.
• Conduct regular department meetings, establish priorities, and drive process improvements to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Act as primary liaison with ownership during recurring meetings, providing insight on arrears, building operations, tenant turnover, and other financial matters.
• Prepare and review monthly financial reports, bank reconciliations, and client management reports, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Oversee the preparation and analysis of annual operating budgets for both the management company and client entities.
• Review and approve payroll processing and quarterly/annual payroll tax filings.
• Manage the hiring, onboarding, and training of accounting and administrative staff; ensure smooth employee transitions.
• Provide guidance on year-end compensation adjustments, bonuses, and staffing recommendations.
• Review and approve bill-back analyses and other client-specific financial reporting requests.
• Coordinate directly with external auditors and CPA firms on year-end workpapers, tax filings, and compliance for multiple entities.
• Support ownership with special projects, financial analysis, and ad hoc reporting as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in real estate and/or property management is required
• Experience with Yardi or other real estate/property management accounting software a plus
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and tax compliance.
• Demonstrated success leading accounting teams and implementing process improvements.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present financial data to ownership and non-financial stakeholders.
• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to balance strategic oversight and detailed financial management.