We are partnered with a private family office overseeing a diversified real estate investment, development, and property management portfolio in Los Angeles on the search for its next Controller. This is a hands-on financial leadership role with direct ownership of the accounting function, serving as a core member of the finance team.
The portfolio spans commercial real estate holdings, including shopping centers, and requires a Controller who can maintain accurate, audit-ready books while supporting lenders, tax reporting, and day-to-day property operations.
This person will be responsible for owning cash management, financial reporting, and compliance end-to-end, while bringing the accuracy, discretion, and rigor this ownership structure requires.
The MandateThis organization is very clear about what it is - and is not - seeking.
They are not looking for a Controller who only reviews numbers after the fact, or one unwilling to stay hands-on with day-to-day accounting operations.
They are seeking a builder-operator of the finance function: a Controller who can manage cash, own reporting, supervise staff, and keep a complex commercial real estate portfolio's books accurate, compliant, and audit-ready - end to end.
Key Responsibilities- Manage cash, including loan paydowns and draws.
- Prepare financial statements for internal review, lenders, and government agencies' tax reporting.
- Supervise accounts receivable, including accurate tenant billing of rent and CAM, and posting of tenant receipts.
- Oversee CAM reconciliation and collection.
- Supervise monthly reconciliations of the general ledger.
- Prepare and file all local and tax returns, including city business licenses, permits, and personal property taxes.
- Coordinate submission of year-end financials to the CPA for tax return preparation.
- Provide back-up coverage for accounts payable management, including vendor documentation and 1099 processing, monthly bank reconciliations, property tax appeals documentation, collections, and other accounting functions.
- Review lender loan statements to validate interest charged and loan balances.
- Prepare monthly 401(k) spreadsheets reflecting employee/employer contributions for transmittal to the plan administrator.
- Generate and submit semi-monthly payroll to the payroll provider.
- Maintain and update real estate schedules and other databases.
- Oversee accounting staff.
Ideal Profile- Bachelor's degree in Accounting (minimum).
- 5-7 years minimum accounting experience in commercial (shopping center) real estate.
- Proficiency in Yardi Voyager (version 7s and later updates).
- Skilled in Microsoft Office (version 2024 and later upgrades), and proficient in Excel and Claude AI.
- Adept at planning and analyzing financial information.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and presentation skills.
- Skilled at managing multiple priorities and relationships.
- Energetic team player who works well with minimal supervision.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience overseeing accounting staff.
Location & Work Model- Los Angeles, California
- On-site
Compensation- Base salary: $150,000.00 to $225,000 DOE
- Benefits: Paid time off, health insurance sharing, 401(k), direct deposit, and paid parking.
Base Compensation Range
$150,000-$225,000 USD
