Assistant Controller Role Summary
Reporting to the Head of Finance, the Assistant Controller will oversee daily accounting operations and play a pivotal role in driving financial integrity, operational excellence, and profitability across the agency. This individual will partner closely with accounting, FP&A, and department leaders to ensure accurate reporting, timely close cycles, and compliance with all financial policies.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting OperationsMonth-End Close
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Lead and supervise the Accounts Payable team, ensuring accurate coding (GL, Class, Department, and Period) and timely vendor payments.
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Oversee month-end close, ensuring proper cutoffs, reconciliations, and accuracy of all balance sheet accounts.
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Review payroll processing runs prior to finalization to ensure accuracy
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Maintain and reconcile sub-ledgers for media and production inventory, including accruals and deferrals.
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Prepare and review monthly journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analyses.
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Continuously improve the monthly close process to shorten timelines and enhance accuracy.
Team LeadershipDevelopment
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Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and collaboration.
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Provide training on accounting systems, agency-specific processes, and best practices to reduce recurring errors.
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Collaborate cross-functionally to improve financial understanding across departments.
Financial PlanningAnalysis Support
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Support FP&A with timely and accurate data for cashflow forecasting, client profitability, and budget-to-actual reporting.
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Participate in weekly cashflow meetings and provide insights on payment trends, collections timing, and variance drivers.
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Support development of dashboards and KPIs to monitor financial health and client performance.
Audit, Compliance, and Controls
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Manage preparation and review of annual audit schedules and supporting documentation.
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Maintain strong internal controls, policy documentation, and accounting procedures consistent with GAAP.
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Coordinate timely completion of tax filings and statutory reporting with external advisors.
CommissionsCompensation
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Oversee quarterly commission calculations and ensure compliance with internal policies.
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Maintain accurate commission eligibility data and present schedules for approval and payment.
Qualifications
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Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA is a plus.
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3–5 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally within advertising, marketing, media, or a PE-backed environment.
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Strong understanding of GAAP, revenue recognition (ASC 606), and accrual-based accounting.
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Experience with QuickBooks or project based agency ERP system strongly preferred.
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Proven track record in improving close processes and implementing controls
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Strong Excel skills
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Excellent communication, analytical, and leadership skills.