Controller - Restaurants

Position Overview:

The Controller will oversee all accounting and financial reporting functions, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. This role is critical in maintaining financial integrity, supporting strategic decision-making, and improving processes to optimize financial performance. The Controller will work closely with leadership and operational teams to provide actionable insights and maintain strong fiscal controls across all locations.Key Responsibilities:Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Manage the general ledger, reconciliations, and financial close processes.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and industry-specific financial standards.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance, identifying trends and improvement opportunities.
• Support budgeting and forecasting processes, providing financial insights for strategic planning.

Operational & Cost Control

• Develop and maintain cost control strategies, focusing on food & beverage costs, labor, and operational expenses.
• Work closely with operations leadership to track and improve restaurant-level profitability.
• Optimize cash flow management, including vendor payments, inventory management, and working capital optimization.
• Implement and improve financial systems, reporting tools, and internal controls.

Leadership & Process Improvement

• Lead and mentor the accounting team, ensuring high performance and professional development.
• Improve financial processes, automation, and reporting efficiencies to scale with company growth.
• Collaborate with the CFO, VP of Operations, and restaurant GMs to provide financial insights and decision support.
• Lead annual audits, tax filings, and compliance initiatives, working with external auditors and tax advisors.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 7+ years of accounting/finance experience, preferably in multi-unit restaurant, hospitality, or franchise industries.
• Strong understanding of restaurant financial operations, including P&L management, COGS, and labor cost analysis.
• Experience with restaurant accounting systems (e.g., Restaurant365, Compeat, NetSuite, QuickBooks).
• Expertise in GAAP, financial reporting, and tax compliance.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or CMA preferred).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.