Internal Controller (Consultant)

Engagement Overview

We are seeking a senior-level Interim or Fractional Controller to step in on an hourly, contract basis to stabilize, clean up, and redesign our internal accounting function for a fast-growing organization. This engagement is hands-on and execution-focused, requiring ownership of day-to-day accounting operations while simultaneously building the future-state Controller role.

The consultant will operate as the internal Controller until a permanent hire is made. The primary objective is to establish scalable, well-documented processes and controls, create a comprehensive accounting playbook, and ensure a seamless transition to a full-time Controller at the conclusion of the engagement.

Scope of Work & Key Objectives

• Stabilize and own day-to-day accounting operations during the interim period
• Clean up historical accounting issues and modernize existing processes
• Design and document the ideal Controller operating model for a high-growth company
• Build scalable policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Create a detailed accounting playbook to support long-term ownership
• Support the hiring and onboarding of a permanent internal Controller

Responsibilities

• Fully own and operate the internal accounting function on an interim basis, including day-to-day execution
• Manage and oversee two Staff Accountants responsible for Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable
• Serve as the primary accounting partner to the CFO, translating transactional activity into clear financial insights
• Lead accounting cleanup initiatives, including reconciliations, close inefficiencies, and reporting accuracy
• Design, implement, and document scalable accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Personally execute and test new processes to ensure successful implementation prior to team handoff
• Manage all general accounting activities, including full-cycle month-end close, journal entries, reconciliations, consolidations, and variance analysis
• Prepare monthly financial statements and management reporting, including budget vs. actual and fluctuation analysis
• Direct billing, collections, cash management, and cash forecasting activities
• Oversee payroll processing, sales commission calculations, and tax compliance
• Build standardized KPI dashboards and recurring leadership reporting
• Create standardized and ad-hoc financial reports covering revenue, margins, operating costs, and key performance metrics
• Develop budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow processes in partnership with leadership
• Create and document a comprehensive accounting playbook, including SOPs, calendars, controls, templates, and role definitions
• Define the future-state Controller role and assist with recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding the permanent hire

Ideal Consultant Profile

• Former or current Controller with experience in interim, fractional, or consulting roles
• Proven success rebuilding or scaling accounting functions in high-growth environments
• Comfortable owning day-to-day accounting while designing future-state processes
• Strong change management skills with the ability to bring structure to evolving organizations
• Experienced people manager, capable of leading small accounting teams
• Executive-level communicator with the ability to partner closely with CFOs and leadership teams

Preferred Background

• Experience supporting startups or scaling companies (approximately 100–200 employees)
• Prior ownership of accounting cleanup or post-growth restructuring initiatives
• Experience building accounting playbooks and SOPs for long-term use
• Familiarity with QuickBooks Online, Bill.com, Rippling, and Monday.com
• Professional services industry experience a plus

Engagement Details

• Hourly, contract-based engagement
• Duration: Until permanent Controller hire is completed and onboarded
• High degree of autonomy and ownership expected

Position Status: 1099 - temporary, 20+ hours per week