Our esteemed client is seeking a Financial Controller to lead and scale the financial operations of a fast-growing advertising and creative services firm. This is a pivotal role for a hands-on finance leader who thrives in a dynamic, project-based environment and can build systems, streamline processes, and serve as a strategic advisor to both internal teams and agency partners. This is a builder role — perfect for someone who enjoys creating structure in creative environments, implementing financial best practices, and enabling better business decisions through strong financial visibility.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Manage daily accounting functions including AP, AR, client billing, payroll, reconciliations, and project-based revenue tracking.
• Drive a fast and accurate month-end close — with a goal of 5 days or less.
• Lead multi-entity consolidations and produce monthly flash reports and quarterly financial statements.
• Implement and maintain consistent accounting policies, internal controls, and compliance protocols.
• Build monthly financial reporting packages, including client profitability, utilization, consolidated cash flow, and KPI dashboards tailored to an agency model.

Strategic & Advisory

• Serve as a fractional CFO to portfolio agencies or internal teams — supporting budgeting, pricing strategies, and financial forecasting.
• Partner with executive leadership on cash flow forecasting, margin optimization, media spend analysis, and client profitability.
• Support strategic initiatives including M&A, new service line modeling, and international expansion.
• Lead system enhancements or migrations — transitioning from QuickBooks to ERP-level tools as needed (e.g., NetSuite, Sage Intacct).

Leadership & Culture

• Build and lead a lean, high-performing finance team with an eye toward scalability.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with client services, project management, sales, and operations.
• Champion a culture of financial accountability, transparency, and operational excellence — while supporting the creative core of the business.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or MBA preferred).
• Experience:
• 10+ years of progressive experience in accounting/finance, preferably within advertising, marketing, media, or project-based services.
• Strong familiarity with time tracking, resource planning, and client billing models (e.g., fixed-fee, retainer, media commission).
• Technical Skills:
• Proficient in QuickBooks Online, Excel (advanced), and financial modeling.
• Experience with systems like Workamajig, NetSuite, Deltek, FunctionFox, or other agency finance tools is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of process automation, KPI reporting, and system integrations.
• Soft Skills:
• Strategic thinker, clear communicator, and trusted advisor to creative and business leaders.
• Collaborative leadership style with the ability to work across departments and influence non-financial stakeholders.
• Cultural Fit: Entrepreneurial, adaptable, thrives in creative, fast-paced environments with high standards and high impact.

Ascendo is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability