Vice President, Controller

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller is responsible for leading the accounting operations of the Pittsburgh Penguins and related entities. The Controller oversees financial reporting, internal controls, audit coordination, league reporting support, tax compliance, and day-to-day accounting functions to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to GAAP.

This role is a hands-on accounting leadership position in a multi-entity, event-driven professional sports environment requiring strong technical accounting expertise, disciplined process management, and the ability to maintain a robust control environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes across all entities.
• Prepare and review financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Oversee general ledger integrity, account reconciliations, and journal entries.
• Ensure timely and accurate consolidation of related entities including arena operations, minor league affiliate, practice facility, and related investments.
• Support NHL financial reporting requirements, including HRR and other league-mandated reporting.
• Support CFO in responding to ownership, banking, and league financial requests.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Develop and maintain strong internal control policies and documentation.
• Serve as primary liaison with external auditors and coordinate annual audit process.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.
• Monitor cash flow, debt compliance, and financial risk exposure.
• Safeguard organizational assets through disciplined accounting procedures.

Revenue & Event Accounting

• Oversee accounting for diverse revenue streams including ticket sales, premium seating, sponsorship, broadcasting distributions, merchandise, and concessions.
• Ensure accurate revenue recognition for multi-element sponsorship agreements and long-term suite contracts.
• Coordinate financial reporting for home games, special events, and arena-related activities.
• Maintain appropriate documentation and controls for multi-entity revenue streams.

Payroll, Compensation & Benefits

• Oversee payroll processing and ensure timely and accurate payment of employees.
• Maintain payroll-related compliance and reporting requirements.
• Coordinate with legal and hockey operations departments regarding contract accounting and compliance with league rules.
• Coordinate with HR and other departments to ensure proper accounting treatment of compensation and benefits.

Accounting Operations

• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and fixed assets.
• Maintain chart of accounts and accounting policies.
• Monitor cash balances and support cash flow reporting to CFO.
• Drive continuous improvement in accounting systems and processes.

Team Leadership

• Supervise and develop accounting team members.
• Promote accountability, process discipline, and continuous improvement.
• Foster collaboration across departments to support financial accuracy and transparency.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.
• CPA designation required.
• 8-12 years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership roles.
• Experience managing audits and financial reporting processes.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP.

Preferred

• Experience in professional sports, entertainment, live events, or multi-entity environments.
• Experience working within a big four accounting firm.
• Familiarity with professional sports league reporting requirements.
• Experience with ERP and financial reporting systems.

Key Competencies

• Strong technical accounting knowledge.
• Attention to detail and process orientation.
• Action orientation.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, seasonal business model.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Discretion in handling confidential player and organizational financial data.

Position Scope & Reporting

• Reports to:
  
  Chief Financial Officer.
• Direct Reports:
  Accounting team (AP, AR, payroll, staff accountants).

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.

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