Controller, Merlin Labs

• 7+ years of experience in finance and accounting roles, with at least 3 years in leadership positions (Controller, Senior Accountant, or FP&A Lead)
• 2 + years Managing a team, or Direct People management Experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial modeling, forecasting, budgeting, and financial reporting
• Experience with Deltek software, including financial management, project execution, and compliance specific to government contracts
• Experience leading the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, and coordinating audits with external auditors
• Proven ability to manage complex financial operations in a high-growth or startup environment
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to present financial information to senior leadership and influence strategic decision-making
• Solid understanding of treasury management, payroll systems (Rippling, TMF), and large-scale accounts payable processes
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

Desirable

• We are seeking an experienced and strategic Controller to join our team
• This role will serve as a key partner in driving the financial health and operational efficiency of the company
• You will oversee all aspects of financial operations and work directly with senior leadership to align financial strategy with business goals
• You will have the opportunity to create robust financial frameworks, provide strategic insights, and ensure compliance in a growing company
• This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a dynamic, innovative environment and has experience with both day-to-day accounting operations and high-level financial strategy
• You will play a critical role in shaping the future of Merlin Labs and supporting its ambitious growth trajectory
• Oversee all financial operations, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis, ensuring compliance with GAAP and other regulatory requirements
• Provide strategic insights and recommendations that influence key business decisions, drive profitability, and optimize capital allocation
• Lead financial planning and analysis (FP&A) efforts, including the development of financial models, forecasts, and the preparation of annual and quarterly budgets
• Manage the company’s accounting functions, including payroll for US and NZ subsidiaries in Rippling and TMF, ensuring accuracy and compliance with local regulations
• Oversee treasury management for US and NZ bank accounts, ensuring accounts are funded appropriately for payroll and other operational expenses
• Approve large AP items and ensure all payments are in line with company policies and financial forecasts
• Lead the preparation and presentation of financial statements and reports to the executive team, ensuring all data is accurate, actionable, and delivered in a timely manner
• Manage the tax process and ensure compliance with federal, state, and international tax regulations, coordinating with external tax advisors as needed
• Review and analyze contract terms to ensure accurate accounting, financial reporting, and billing by project. Prepare monthly financial reports for US government contracts, ensuring accuracy and adherence to contract terms
• Build strong relationships across the business, acting as a go-to partner for operations, HR, business development, and leadership to align financial strategies with company goals and support key initiatives