LOCATION

Washington DC region

JOB TYPE

Full-Time

EXPERIENCE

5-8 years

SALARY

Competitive compensation

About Us

Builders + Backers is an AI-enabled idea and venture studio that transforms business concepts into real companies. We combine expert guidance with powerful AI tools to make entrepreneurship accessible to anyone, anywhere. Our platform serves as the operating system for venture creation, democratizing access to the tools, guidance, and resources entrepreneurs need to validate ideas and scale companies efficiently.

We're a fast-moving, early-stage company with validated product-market fit and strong investor backing. We've proven our concept and are now preparing to scale significantly.

The Opportunity

We're looking for an experienced Controller to join as a foundational team member. You'll be equally comfortable closing monthly books and building the financial systems that will support our growth at scale. This role offers the chance to establish financial operations from the ground up while working alongside leadership to drive strategic decisions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Operations & Reporting:
   • Handle day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, and vendor management
   • Prepare monthly financial statements and management reports
   • Manage month-end close processes and ensure timely, accurate reporting
   • Maintain accounting policies and procedures
   • Support annual audit and tax preparation processes
   • Track and report on key business metrics
2. Systems & Process Development:
   • Design and implement scalable financial systems and processes to support rapid growth
   • Create automated workflows and controls to improve accuracy and efficiency
   • Develop financial policies and procedures
3. Compliance & Risk Management:
   • Ensure compliance with tax regulations, SEC requirements, and other regulatory obligations
   • Manage relationships with external tax advisors and regulatory consultants
   • Implement risk management procedures and internal controls
   • Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash management
   • Coordinate insurance, contracts, and other operational finance matters

Required Qualifications

1. Education & Experience
   • 5–8 years of accounting/finance experience, including at least 2+ years in a leadership role
   • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
   • Prior experience in a startup or growth-stage company
2. Technical Skills
   • Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards
   • Demonstrated experience managing monthly close, reporting, and cash flow
   • Experience with month-end close and financial statement preparation
   • Proficiency with financial tools (QuickBooks, NetSuite, Excel, Ramp, Gusto)
3. Core Competencies
   • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
   • Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently
   • Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
4. Nice-to-Haves
   • CPA certification (or in progress)
   • Experience with SaaS, venture-backed startups, or fund accounting
   • Familiarity with equity administration and cap table tools (Carta)
   • Knowledge of financial modeling and budgeting

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

1. Work Experience:
   • Experience working as a solo finance professional or in small teams
   • Track record of building financial systems and processes from the ground up
   • Understanding of startup financial challenges and growth metrics
2. Technical & Industry Knowledge:
   • Experience with modern financial tools and methodologies
   • Interest in AI/technology sector
   • Familiarity with venture-backed company requirements