Controller (Bank/Financial Services experience only) NEW

Knoxville, Tennessee
NPA WorldWide
Job description:

Controller (Bank/Financial Services experience only)

Principal Responsibilities:

Lead all accounting operations for the Bank and holding company, including general ledger, reconciliations, and financial close processes
Oversee the preparation and accuracy of all internal financial reporting and external regulatory filings, including Call Reports and related schedules

Manage and continuously improve the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring consistency, timeliness, and audit readiness

Partner with the CFO on annual budgeting and ongoing forecasting, including variance analysis and financial performance reporting

Maintain and enhance the Banks internal control environment, including FDICIA compliance, documentation, and testing coordination

Serve as primary liaison for external audits and regulatory examinations, coordinating responses and ensuring readiness

Oversee preparation of audited financial statements and annual reports in accordance with GAAP and regulatory expectations

Maintain holding company and shareholder accounting, including dividend activity and related reporting

Evaluate, implement, and optimize accounting systems, processes, and controls to support growth and operational efficiency

Support strategic initiatives, including M&A activity, balance sheet strategy, and finance-related projects as required

Team Leadership & Management

Oversee workflow management, prioritization, and resource allocation across the function

Qualifications:

Controller (Bank/Financial Services experience only)

What we are looking for

Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA strongly preferred (active or previously active)
7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with a significant portion within the banking industry or auditing financial institutions

Prior experience as a Controller, Assistant Controller, or senior accounting leader within a community or regional bank ($1B+ assets) or equivalent complexity

Demonstrated ownership of full-cycle accounting operations, including month-end close, financial reporting, and audit coordination

Direct experience with bank regulatory reporting, including Call Reports, with a clear understanding of related schedules and supporting processes

Strong working knowledge of U.S. GAAP as applied to financial institutions, including areas such as:

Loan accounting and interest income recognition

Allowance for credit losses (ACL/CECL) frameworks and governance

Investment securities (AFS/HTM), fair value considerations, and OTTI/impairment analysis

Deposits, borrowings, and funding structures

Experience operating within an FDICIA-controlled environment, including documentation, control design, and interaction with internal/external auditors

Proven ability to manage external audit processes and regulatory examinations with minimal disruption to operations

Exposure to financial systems commonly used in banking (e.g., Jack Henry, FIS, or similar core/accounting platforms) and reporting tools

Experience supporting or integrating acquisitions is a plus but not required

Technical & Professional Capabilities
Deep understanding of bank financial reporting, regulatory expectations, and internal control frameworks

Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a complex, evolving environment

Leadership & Personal Attributes

High level of professional judgment, discretion, and accountability

Self-directed with the ability to operate independently while maintaining alignment with executive leadership

Effective communicator capable of interfacing with senior management, Board members, auditors, and regulators

Calm, steady presence in high-pressure situations, particularly during audits, exams, and reporting cycles

Organized and disciplined, with a strong orientation toward execution and follow-through

Additional Expectations

Perform additional duties as required to support the broader finance function and organizational objectives

Why is This a Great Opportunity:

This is not a Remote/Work From Home opportunity.

Controller (Bank/Financial Services experience only)

Opportunity Description

The Controller is responsible for the leadership, execution, and continuous improvement of the Banks accounting and financial reporting functions, with direct accountability for the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of all financial information across both the Bank and its holding company.

Operating in a large and complex community bank environment, this role requires a balance of technical depth, operational discipline, and leadership capability. The Controller serves as the Banks internal authority on accounting and financial reporting matters, ensuring compliance with U.S. GAAP and all applicable regulatory requirements while supporting a scalable, well-controlled finance infrastructure.

The Controller partners closely with the CFO on financial reporting, planning cycles, and control oversight, while also serving as a key interface with external auditors, regulators, and the Board. This role demands a hands-on leader who can manage complexity, anticipate issues, and drive consistent execution in a highly scrutinized environment.

Salary Type : Annual Salary

Salary Min : $ 130000

Salary Max : $ 185000

Currency Type : USD