Controller

Tierra Encantada, headquartered in Minneapolis, MN is actively expanding its brand presence across the United States. We are seeking a Controller to join our Finance & Accounting team to oversee the financial health and provide strategic guidance as we scale the business.

Tierra Encantada is the leader in Spanish immersion early education, and provides education and care to children 6 weeks through 6 years of age. Our award-winning concept has received numerous accolades, including Top 50 Franchise Companies Doing the Most to Champion Diversity by Entrepreneur Magazine, 10 Hottest Franchise Businesses in America by Inc Magazine, and The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies.

Primary Responsibilities

The Controller will be responsible for managing the accounting and finance functions of the company, ensuring accuracy in financial reporting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and the development of financial strategies to support business growth. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with experience in the franchising industry and a track record of optimizing financial operations.

Financial Management & Reporting:

• Oversee all accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, and financial reporting.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity.
• Manage cash flow, forecasting, and support budgeting processes.
• Perform monthly analyses to understand performance of the business
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations, including franchise-related tax considerations.

Franchise Finance & Compliance:

• Oversee franchise royalty reporting and compliance with franchise agreements.
• Monitor franchisee financial performance and provide financial insights to support franchise development.
• Work closely with franchisees on financial best practices, benchmarking, and profitability analysis.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or MBA preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in accounting or finance, preferably within a franchisor or multi-unit business.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and tax compliance.
• Experience with franchise accounting, royalty structures, and financial compliance preferred.
• Proficiency in financial software (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite, or similar ERP systems).
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Capable of multi-tasking across projects of varying scope and complexity.
• Adaptability and comfort with ambiguity, able to adapt on the fly.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, growing business environment.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range is $120,000 - $130,000 depending on qualifications, education, and experience. Eligible for annual performance bonus. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid parental leave, 12 paid holidays, PTO accrual of 160 hours, 401(k) with 3% employer match, discounted childcare and waitlist priority for enrollment, company paid professional development, WFH one day a week, corporate office amenities (gym, wellness/nursing room, onsite company cafe with coffee, espresso bar, beverages, and snacks available to employees at no cost, onsite free parking), casual work environment, and employee-focused events.

Tierra Encantada is an equal opportunity employer. Agency applications will not be considered. E-Verify is used to verify employment eligibility.