Controller / Senior Director of Finance & Administration

Are you looking to put your finance & accounting skills to work in a fast-paced start-up environment? about soccer, and excited to help us build on our inaugural season? ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management and Accounting: Oversee daily accounting operations, including accounts payable/receivable, payroll, general ledger, and financial reporting, with direct responsibility for preparing journal entries and variance explanations when needed. Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, ensuring compliance with GAAP and relevant regulations, plus USL league reporting standards. Help build and refine the club’s finance and accounting infrastructure, including creating finance-related policies. Budgeting and Forecasting: Lead the annual budgeting process in collaboration with senior leadership. Monitor financial performance and budget variances, manage cash flow, and provide forecasts to inform strategic planning, including revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, merchandise, and events. Audit and Compliance: Be responsible for operating and maintaining the Club’s accounting system. requirements for sports organizations. Risk Management: Identify financial and operational risks, develop mitigation strategies, and oversee insurance, legal compliance, and contract management to protect the organization. Maintain a documented system of accounting policies and procedures; implement a system of controls over accounting transactions to minimize risk. Human Resources and Administration: Assist with HR functions, including payroll, employee onboarding, benefits administration and employee relations. When needed, assist with other aspects of office administration, IT systems, facilities maintenance, and vendor relationships to support smooth operations. Strategic Support: Analyze financial data to provide insights on profitability, cost efficiencies, and growth opportunities. Present financial reports and recommendations to the leadership team and board, contributing to decisions on investments, partnerships, and resource allocation. Leadership: Manage external consultants and vendors as needed. Collaborate with other departments, such as sales, operations, and marketing, to align financial strategies with organizational goals. Special Projects: Handle ad-hoc projects, such as financial modeling for new initiatives (e.g., stadium upgrades or youth programs) and process improvements to enhance efficiency in a lean environment. QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA, CPA, or CMA preferred. At least 5 years of progressive experience in finance/accounting, with at least 2 years in a leadership role, preferably in a small business, nonprofit, or sports/entertainment organization. Strong knowledge of financial management, budgeting, auditing, and risk assessment. Proficiency in financial software (QuickBooks preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for advanced modeling and analysis. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to Board members and other stakeholders. Demonstrated leadership ability, with experience driving results in a collaborative environment and fostering a positive workplace culture. Strong organizational skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multifaceted role, with accurate work product and strong attention to detail. skills to effectively interact with team members, executives, league employees, and external partners. Ability to work as business needs require which may include long days, evenings, weekends, occasional holidays, and travel if / when necessary. Discretion in handling confidential materials. Must have U. S. experience with some combination of payroll processing, HR administration, insurance/risk management, and regulatory compliance. Familiarity with the sports industry, including revenue streams like ticket sales, sponsorships, and event management. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.