Job Description

Job Title: Controller

Job Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL (5 days onsite)

Job Type: Direct-Hire

Work Authorization: We can only consider USC or Green Card Holders for this Opening

About the Company

Our client is a medical-surgical, laboratory, dental, and animal health products wholesale distributor. The company has transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) within the last four years, empowering employees with an ownership stake in the business. This shift reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of shared success, dedication, and long-term stability, ensuring that our team directly benefits from the company's growth and achievements.

Position Summary

The Controller is a key member of the leadership team, responsible for overseeing the company’s financial and accounting operations, audit compliance, ESOP administration, retirement plans, and benefits programs. This role ensures compliance, efficiency, and strategic financial planning while supporting long-term company growth. The VP will also work closely with senior leadership to manage optimize financial performance and employee benefits programs.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Oversight

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounting, reporting, budgeting, and treasury management.
• Develop and enforce financial policies, internal controls, and procedures to ensure compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards.
• Provide financial insights and strategic recommendations to senior leadership to support business goals.
• Maintain strong relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, banking institutions, and ESOP administrators.

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)

• Lead the budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes.
• Analyze financial data to identify trends, risks, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Work with department heads to optimize financial efficiency and align resources with business strategy.

ESOP & Employee Benefits Management

• Manage all aspects of the company’s ESOP, including plan administration, compliance, reporting, and employee communications.
• Serve as the primary contact for ESOP trustees, external administrators, and valuation firms.
• Oversee 401(k) retirement plan administration, ensuring compliance with ERISA and IRS regulations.
• Lead annual benefits negotiations for health insurance, disability, life insurance, and other employee benefits programs.
• Partner with HR to educate employees on ESOP, retirement, and benefits programs to maximize participation and understanding.

Accounting, Compliance & Risk Management

• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and financial reporting standards.
• Lead corporate tax strategy, working closely with tax advisors to optimize company tax position.
• Manage relationships with external auditors and oversee annual audits and compliance filings.
• Assess financial risks and develop mitigation strategies to protect company assets and employee benefits.

Treasury & Cash Management

• Oversee cash flow, liquidity, and treasury functions to maintain financial stability.
• Manage banking relationships, debt, and investment strategies.
• Ensure accurate ESOP valuation and funding for stock repurchases and allocations.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and mentor the finance and accounting teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Implement best practices in financial reporting, process automation, and technology adoption.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• CPA, CMA, or CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist) certification strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in a $200M+ revenue ESOP company .
• Strong experience with ESOP administration, retirement plans (401k), and employee benefits management.
• Expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting for mid-to-large companies ($200M+ in revenue).
• Deep understanding of GAAP, tax regulations, ERISA, and compliance requirements.
• Strong proficiency with ERP systems, financial software, and reporting tools.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Experience

• Background in private equity-backed or employee-owned organizations.
• Experience with M&A due diligence and financial integrations.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to lead financial operations and drive employee ownership success.
• Play a key role in the long-term financial strategy and stability of the company.
• Work alongside a dynamic and forward-thinking leadership team.
• Competitive salary, bonus structure, ESOP participation, and comprehensive benefits package.

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