Reports to: CEO
Location: Grand Rapids, MI – Hybrid, in office on Monday and Wednesday or Thursdays as needed
WHO WE ARE
W Talent Solutions is a recruiting and talent consulting agency transforming the way companies identify and optimize their employees. We place the right person in the right seat, every time. Excellent business is our goal and giving back to the community is our mission.
POSITION OBJECTIVE
The Controller serves as the operational and financial backbone of W Talent Solutions and related company, Ward Ventures. This position ensures that all administrative, financial, HR, and compliance functions operate efficiently and accurately, providing leadership with forward-looking insights to guide business decisions. Additionally, this role serves as the strategic partner in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), forecasting, and data-driven decision support.
FUNCTIONS
Strategic Business Administration
· Support leadership in the development of short- and long-term operational and financial strategies.
· Continuously evaluate back-of-the-house business processes to identify efficiencies, cost savings, and opportunities for automation.
· Maintain all corporate documentation, registrations, insurance renewals, and compliance filings for W Talent Solutions and Ward Ventures.
· Serve as point of contact for legal and CPA partners, ensuring ongoing alignment and timely completion of projects and business support.
· Manage relationships with business vendors (e.g., IT, insurance, phone systems, benefits, facility maintenance).
· Serve as “go-to” contact for internal staff office procedures and compliance questions.
· Oversight of W Impact; our philanthropic mission and community volunteering are consistently planned, documented, and reported.
Financial Management + FP&A
· Oversee all accounting functions
· Lead the month-end close process, including reconciliation of bank accounts, categorization of transactions, and review of financial statements for both entities.
· Track and maintain cash flow forecasting models, tracking short- and long-term opportunities.
· Build policy for deploying cash on hand into short- or long-term money markets or investment opportunities.
· Tax forecasting and assessment of cash-on-hand optimization.
· Build departmental budgets and monitor actuals monthly against targets with variance reporting and actionable insights. Maintain budgets for year-over-year departmental spend.
· Prepare and deliver monthly and quarterly executive reports.
· Develop and maintain reporting tools for strategic forecasting.
· Maintain the accuracy of chart of accounts and ensure consistent categorization of expenses and revenue.
· Oversight of Accounts Receivable: create client invoices, track payments, follow up on outstanding balances, and apply late fees when appropriate.
· Manage Accounts Payable: schedule and pay vendor bills, monitor recurring charges, and ensure appropriate authorization.
· Maintain cash flow dashboards and share proactive, monthly updates on expected inflows/outflows with visuals and charts.
· Analyze data to identify opportunities for cost reduction, vendor consolidation, and improved ROI.
· Lead budgeting and forecasting meetings with leadership, providing analysis and recommendations for improved profitability.
Human Resources + Compliance
· Serve as the company’s HR and compliance lead, ensuring legal and ethical adherence across all policies.
· Administer benefits programs, ensuring smooth enrollments, changes, and terminations.
· Manage payroll processing, commission calculations, benefit deductions, and reporting.
· Manage employee records, including status change forms, compensation tracking, and commission worksheets.
· Monitor PTO accruals, time-off balances, and compliance with paid holiday policy.
· Coordinate open enrollment, 401(k) updates, and employee benefit selection.
Technology, Tools and Systems
· Maintain oversight of technology tools and subscriptions, ensuring all are current and effectively utilized.
· Coordinate with IT vendors on technology security, data backup, and system updates as needed.
· Evaluate and recommend new technology tools that improve efficiency or data accuracy as needed.
· Identify opportunities to expand automation in financial and administrative operations.
Office, Facility, and Ward Ventures Oversight
· Manage office facilities for W Talent Solutions, including building maintenance, vendor coordination, and insurance, utility, and tax payments.
· Oversee office supply inventory, cleanliness, and organization.
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
· Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field required.
· 5+ years of progressive experience in accounting, tax, and FP&A.
· Experience managing budgets, forecasts, and cash flow projections.
· Strong knowledge of accounting principles, GAAP compliance, and growing business operations.
· Prior experience with HR and benefits administration preferred.
· Proficiency in QuickBooks, HRIS, Microsoft Excel, ATS, and AI automation tools.
· Experience collaborating with CPAs, attorneys, and leadership teams.
SKILLS REQUIRED
· Advanced Excel and financial modeling ability.
· Exceptional organizational and analytical skills.
· Strong written and verbal communication.
· Ability to manage multiple entities and priorities simultaneously.
· Technologically savvy and eager to optimize through automation.
· High emotional intelligence and discretion with sensitive information.
· Strong leadership and delegation skills.
· Proactive, resourceful, and adaptable mindset in a fast-paced environment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
· Hybrid office environment; moderate noise level.
· Ability to sit, stand, and use computer systems for extended periods.
· Occasional local travel for errands or events.
· Must possess a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and be 21+ with ability to handle event-related purchases, including alcohol.
All candidates will be asked to complete a behavioral and cognitive assessment as part of W Talent Solutions hiring practices.