Centennial is proud to partner with a fast-growing, multi-unit restaurant group in the search for a strategic, hands-on Controller / VP of Finance. With 20+ locations across Southwest Ohio and plans for continued expansion, this is an ideal opportunity for a financial leader who thrives in a lean, entrepreneurial environment—where your work is both visible and valued.

With the current back-office leader preparing for retirement after a long and respected tenure, this role offers the chance to step into a critical leadership position. You'll lead all finance, accounting, and administrative functions, reporting directly to the Managing Owner and supported by an experienced and capable team member. From modernizing systems to streamlining operations, you'll help shape the company’s financial future during an exciting time of growth.

This is a high-impact role with significant autonomy, direct access to decision-makers, and the opportunity to lead and improve functions ranging from budgeting and reporting to HR, insurance, and vendor management. If you enjoy switching between big-picture strategy and day-to-day execution, this could be your next great opportunity.

We’re looking for a solution seeker, a collaborative partner, and someone who enjoys being hands-on across many areas of the business—equally comfortable designing the blueprint and rolling up their sleeves to build it.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Leadership

• Own all accounting and month-end close processes
• Prepare detailed financial reports for ownership and lending partners
• Manage daily cash flow and reconcile multiple revenue streams
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial analysis
• Coordinate with external tax advisors on filings and compliance

Operational Oversight

• Supervise payroll, AP, AR, and vendor relationships
• Oversee onboarding, benefits, and HR documentation (with HR contractor support)
• Manage office systems, IT vendors, insurance policies, and contracts
• Ensure lease and real estate compliance
• Address customer issues that reach the corporate level

Strategic & Special Projects

• Identify and implement automation and process improvements
• Track KPIs to support data-driven decision-making
• Contribute to new unit development and acquisition evaluation
• Support advertising co-ops and marketing-related budgeting
• Collaborate with ownership on long-term business strategy

QUALIFICATIONS

• 10+ years of progressive finance, accounting, or operational leadership experience
• Track record of success in lean, high-autonomy environments
• Strong analytical and organizational skills, with a sharp attention to detail
• Confident managing HR, payroll, IT vendors, and business contracts
• Highly skilled in Excel; Sage experience is a plus
• Bachelor's degree required; CPA or equivalent a bonus, not a must
• A self-starter who takes initiative, maintains confidentiality, and leads with integrity