Controller / Director of Finance

Controller / Director of Finance — Architecture & Design Firm

Oakland, CA (Hybrid | 2–3 days on-site)

Salary Range : $160,000 – $200,000 (DOE and title)

A mid-sized architecture and design practice in Oakland, CA is seeking an experienced Controller or Director of Finance to lead firmwide financial operations and guide long-term planning. The firm is known for its collaborative culture, commitment to design excellence, and meaningful community impact across educational, housing, and civic environments.

About the Firm

This 60+ person architectural design firm combines the creativity of a boutique studio with the structure of an established S-Corp. The team works across multiple sectors, with a strong focus on education, affordable housing, and senior living. The practice values thoughtful, sustainable design and a culture that supports collaboration, growth, and professional integrity.

About the Role

The Controller / Director of Finance oversees all aspects of the firm’s accounting and financial management—from daily operations to strategic planning. This position partners directly with firm leadership to manage reporting, forecasting, cash flow, and compliance, while supporting project teams with accurate, actionable financial insights.  This is both a hands-on and leadership-level role that blends operations, analysis, and strategic influence.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations & Reporting

Manage general ledger, AP / AR, reconciliations, and month-end / year-end close processes.

Prepare clear, accurate financial statements, dashboards, and variance reports.

Maintain GAAP compliance and effective internal controls.

Project Financials & Business Performance

Oversee project-based accounting including billing, time tracking, and revenue recognition.

Partner with project managers and leadership to forecast budgets and monitor profitability.

Evaluate WIP, utilization, backlog, and other key financial metrics.

Planning, Forecasting & Analysis

Lead annual budgeting, long-range planning, and cash-flow forecasting.

Conduct scenario modeling to inform business strategy and resource allocation.

Identify trends, risks, and opportunities that impact firm growth.

Governance, Compliance & Risk Oversight

Coordinate with outside CPAs on audits, tax planning, and annual filings.

Manage insurance, banking, and licensing relationships.

Ensure adherence to all state, federal, and S-Corp regulations.

Leadership & Systems Development

Supervise and mentor accounting and billing staff (1–2 team members).

Improve workflows and explore ERP or automation enhancements.

Collaborate with leadership on payroll integration and HR-related processes.

Qualifications

7–10+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.

Strong understanding of project-based accounting within a professional services environment (A / E preferred).

Proficiency in Deltek Vantagepoint, QuickBooks, or comparable ERP systems.

Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills.

Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities with non-financial teams.

CPA, CMA, or MBA preferred.

Experience with S-Corp accounting and California compliance a plus.

Why This Role Matters

Your leadership ensures financial clarity and stability in a creative, mission-driven environment. You’ll help connect design vision to financial reality—strengthening operations, guiding planning, and sustaining the firm’s long-term success.