Controller - O'Brien Brothers

Client: O’Brien Brothers

Position Title: Controller

Website: www.obrienbrothersvt.com and www.hillsidevt.com

Location for the Position: South Burlington, VT

Reports to: CEO

Estimated Starting Salary: $125,000 - $140,000 per year depending on experience

About Us:

For nearly 70 years, O’Brien Brothers has been a locally owned developer and manager of exceptional real estate properties.  O’Brien Brothers is a dynamic company with a strong portfolio of multifamily and commercial properties with a focus on community-oriented development and sustainability, having recently developed Vermont’s first 100% carbon-free climate resilient neighborhood.  The experienced and committed team comprised of many long-tenured employees, is genuinely invested in the work they do and the positive impact they have on the community and state. 

Position Overview:

The Controller is an important contributor to the leadership team.  This key role provides hands-on involvement with monthly and yearly closings, prepares and reviews financial statements, and communicates key trends to the CEO and Board. The Controller works closely with the CEO and partners with leaders across the organization to maximize the success of the portfolio.  While this is primarily a hands-on role, the position is also strategic.  The Controller will work with the CEO and Board on the long-term financial strategy of the company.  In addition, this position manages two members of the accounting team.

Essential Job Duties:

Daily, Monthly & Annual Responsibilities:

• Prepare, monitor, and analyze monthly and annual financial reports for the CEO and Board.  Communicate key trends and findings about the financials.
• Reviews bank, credit card, and cash reconciliations.
• Ensure all transactions for the period are accounted for in each of the two GL systems.
• Look closely at significant variances and provide recommendations on areas that should be addressed.
• Ensure accurate and timely filing of federal, state, and local income tax returns and other business-related filings such as those related to HUD/Section 8 compliance.
• Generate monthly reports that include A/R, A/P, and WIP.
• Develop the annual budget, provide monthly and quarterly analysis of the budget to actual, and make recommendations based on company performance.
• Manage the distribution of K-1s to shareholders.
• Assist the outside accountants with everything needed to prepare annual financial statements and tax returns.
• Create and maintain financial controls and procedures for the accounting department.
• Additional job responsibilities may be periodically assigned by the CEO.

Financial Leadership:

• Provide financial analysis and projections to leadership to guide strategic decisions.
• Advise the CEO on financial trends impacting the business.
• Present financial information at board meetings and provide financial guidance.
• Collaborate with the CEO to provide shareholders with key financial information each quarter.
• Present financial information at the annual shareholder meeting.
• Work closely with corporate lenders to find the best solutions for the company.
• Stay up to date on trends and developments in the accounting profession and implement best practices.

Cost Accounting:

• Investigate significant variances between actual and standard costs and recommend the next steps to take.
• Provide recommendations to reduce costs and maximize profits.

Team Development:

• Lead weekly accounting team meetings to support the team in prioritizing tasks.
• Conduct performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.
• Provide mentorship to the accounting team to help them reach their professional goals.

Technology Utilization:

• Optimize the utilization of two GL systems that cover multiple entities.
• Leverage the full potential of Yardi and Mark Systems software suites to make accounting processes as efficient as possible.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or equivalent experience.
• CPA preferred.
• At least five years of related experience required.
• Real estate and construction experience preferred.
• Experience with Yardi and/or Mark Systems is a plus.  Strong Excel skills.
• Experience with HUD or federal compliance is a plus.
• Cost accounting experience preferred.
• Good communication skills, organization skills and can meet deadlines.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional demeanor and ability to articulate and defend financial results to CEO and board members.

Benefits for You:

• 401(k) retirement plan with 4% match
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Medical, Dental, and vision insurance
• HSA account
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid Parental Leave

#O'BrienBrothers

Gallagher, Flynn, & Company, LLP has been retained to conduct this search. Interested candidates may apply by sending a resume and cover letter to Mike Smith, Strategic HR Business Advisor at talentsolutions@gfc.com. While we appreciate all interest in this exciting opportunity, only candidates most closely aligned with our search will be contacted.

Disclaimer: What is listed above is representative of the position's responsibilities but is not meant to be an exhaustive list. Responsibilities may change during employment at the company's discretion. Gallagher, Flynn & Company, LLP and our client do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.