Controller; Real Estate

Hybrid 2 Days in Office | North Shore Chicago Suburbs

A privately held, growth-oriented real estate owner-operator is seeking a Controller to lead and scale its accounting function. This role sits at the center of financial operations and partners closely with senior leadership in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience across real estate and construction accounting, strong process-building instincts, and the ability to manage multiple entities, cash flows, and reporting requirements with precision.

What You’ll Own

• Lead day-to-day accounting operations across multiple legal entities
• Build, refine, and document accounting processes to support portfolio growth
• Oversee general ledger structure, close cycles, and financial reporting
• Manage accounts payable workflows, cash management, and bank reconciliations
• Oversee development and construction accounting, including draws and cost tracking
• Ensure accurate tracking of soft vs. hard costs and alignment with budgets
• Coordinate with external tax advisors and auditors for year-end filings
• Prepare internal and external financial statements for leadership and stakeholders
• Support treasury activities, including distributions and liquidity management
• Review balance sheet activity and investigate variances vs. budget and forecasts
• Lead, mentor, and grow the accounting team
• Drive continuous improvement in systems, controls, and reporting quality

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
• CPA required
• 10+ years of progressive experience in real estate and/or construction accounting
• Strong leadership background managing accounting teams
• Deep understanding of multi-entity accounting, development accounting, and cash controls
• Advanced Excel skills; property accounting system experience required
• Highly organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication skills and a hands-on, solutions-oriented mindset

Why This Role

• High-visibility position with direct access to senior leadership
• Opportunity to modernize and scale accounting infrastructure
• Stable ownership with a long-term investment horizon
• Autonomy to make meaningful operational improvements
• On-site environment with a collaborative, accountable culture