Controller (National Restaurant Chain - Franchise Finance and Accounting)

Controller (National Restaurant Chain - Franchise Finance and Accounting) We are conducting a confidential search for a hands-on Controller to join a private equity-backed, multi-unit business entering a major growth and integration phase. This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who can oversee core accounting operations, financial reporting, audit management, inventory accounting, and team leadership in a fast-paced environment. This role will be especially attractive to candidates who enjoy building structure, improving processes, and operating in a visible finance leadership seat within a growing, sponsor-backed company. The Controller will play a key role in helping the business scale through acquisition and integration while maintaining strong financial discipline and reporting accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes
• Oversee accounting operations across the general ledger, reconciliations, accruals, AP oversight, and financial reporting
• Lead external audits and serve as the primary point of contact for auditors
• Own inventory accounting, including controls, reconciliations, reserve analysis, and related reporting
• Oversee franchise-related accounting and support continued buildout of those processes
• Support private equity ownership reporting and bank / loan covenant reporting
• Strengthen internal controls, reporting rigor, and accounting processes in a lean, growth-oriented environment
• Help support acquisition integration and ongoing process standardization
• Manage and develop a team, including 1-2 senior accountants in New England and an offshore accounting team of 8-10
• Partner cross-functionally with finance leadership, operations, and executive management

Qualifications

• Prior experience in a Controller, Assistant Controller, or senior accounting leadership role
• Strong background in accounting operations, close management, and financial reporting
• Inventory accounting experience is required
• Experience leading external audits is required
• Restaurant and/or franchise experience is preferred
• Experience in multi-unit, consumer, hospitality, retail, distribution, or other inventory-intensive environments is highly relevant
• Prior experience in a private equity-backed company is strongly preferred
• Exposure to lender reporting, debt reporting, and loan covenant compliance is highly attractive
• Experience managing both onshore and offshore teams is a plus
• Systems-oriented and process-improvement minded, with strong ERP experience
• Comfortable operating both strategically and hands-on

Confidential search. Company details will be shared with qualified candidates. Candidates without direct restaurant or franchise experience but with strong inventory-heavy, multi-unit accounting backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Origin Staffing is a specialized recruiting firm delivering high-impact direct-hire solutions across Accounting, Finance, Audit, Tax, Advisory, and Business Transformation. We partner closely with both clients and candidates to understand nuanced needs across industries including Technology, Life Sciences, Financial Services, and Professional Services. Learn more about our recruiting expertise, explore insights on our blog, or contact us to discuss how we can support your hiring or career goals.