Foot Locker

Controller - WSS

Foot Locker • $170K — $220K *
Gardena, CA 90247In-Person
Retail & Consumer Goods
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
  • CPA certification required
  • 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience
  • 5+ years of leadership experience in retail or multi-location businesses
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and internal controls
  • Experience managing accounting operations for organizations with at least $250M+ in annual revenue
  • Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and financial reporting tools

Responsibilities

  • Direct all accounting operations, including general ledger and accounts payable
  • Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes
  • Prepare consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP
  • Analyze financial results, explaining key variances and trends
  • Develop and strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets
  • Partner with field operations to improve store-level financial performance
  • Oversee inventory accounting and valuation processes

Benefits

  • Paid Time Off, Paid Parental Leave
  • Life, Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Self-Development & Recognition Programs
  • Bonus Incentive Program
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • 401k Retirement Plan and HSA Contributions
  • 30%-50% Employee Discount
  • Community Engagement Opportunities
Full Job Description
Overview

This hybrid position will be located at our WSS office. Expectations for hybrid in-office schedule is three days a week, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance functions. This role ensures the integrity of financial information, supports operational decision-making, and drives continuous improvement in accounting processes, systems, and controls across a geographically dispersed store network. Reporting to the VP of Finance & Accounting, the Controller leads the accounting team and partners closely with Operations, Merchandising, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Information Technology to support profitable growth and financial discipline.

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting
  • Direct all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll accounting, inventory accounting, fixed assets, and lease accounting.
  • Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
  • Prepare consolidated financial statements and supporting schedules in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
  • Analyze financial results and explain key variances, trends, and business drivers.
  • Ensure accurate accounting for inventory, vendor rebates, markdowns, shrink, loyalty programs, gift cards, and retail-specific transactions.
  • Manage expectations between Foot Locker/Dick's and WSS, ensuring clear communication, aligned priorities, and accountability across all parties.

Internal Controls & Compliance
  • Develop, maintain, and strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity.
  • Oversee compliance with all accounting standards, tax regulations, and company policies.
  • Coordinate annual external audits and serve as the primary liaison with auditors, as needed.
  • Manage relationships with banking partners, tax advisors, and other external financial service providers.
  • Ensure compliance with sales and use tax, property tax, and other regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions.

Retail Operations Support
  • Partner with field operations and district leadership to improve store-level financial performance.
  • Monitor key retail metrics, including gross margin, inventory turns, shrink, labor productivity, and store profitability.
  • Support new store openings, remodels, and other growth initiatives.
  • Provide financial guidance regarding pricing, promotions, inventory investments, and capital expenditures.

Inventory & Supply Chain Accounting
  • Oversee inventory accounting processes, including physical inventory counts, cycle counts, shrink analysis, and reserve calculations.
  • Ensure accurate valuation of inventory and cost of goods sold.
  • Collaborate with merchandising and supply chain teams to improve inventory controls and reporting.
  • Evaluate and improve processes related to purchasing, distribution, and inventory management.
  • Work cross-functionally with Inventory Control, Accounting, and Supply Chain stakeholders to drive consistent practices, resolve discrepancies, and support end-to-end supply chain efficiency.

Systems & Process Improvement
  • Lead enhancements to ERP, financial reporting, and business intelligence systems.
  • Drive automation initiatives to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
  • Establish and monitor accounting policies and procedures consistent with company growth objectives.
  • Develop dashboards and KPI reporting for executive leadership.

Leadership & Team Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting organization.
  • Establish performance objectives and succession plans for accounting staff.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Build organizational capabilities to support future growth and expansion.


Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
  • CPA certification required
  • 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience
  • 5+ years of leadership experience in retail, consumer products, distribution, or multi-location businesses
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls
  • Experience managing accounting operations for organizations with at least $250M+ in annual revenue
  • Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and financial reporting tools

Preferred
  • Experience in a multi-unit retail environment with 50+ locations
  • Experience with inventory-intensive businesses
  • Background supporting private equity-backed, publicly traded, or high-growth organizations
  • Experience implementing ERP or financial system upgrades
  • MBA and/or public accounting experience


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

Benefits

The annual base salary range is $170,000 - $220,000 / year. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the salary for this position. This role is also eligible to receive short term incentives that align with individual and company performance. Salary will be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data. Salary is one component of the WSS total compensation package, which includes the below.
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Parental Leave
  • Life, Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage - Individual and Family Plans
  • Self-Development & Recognition Programs
  • Bonus Incentive Program
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • 401k Retirement Plan and HSA Contributions
  • 30%-50% Employee Discount - Friend & Family Events
  • Community Engagement Opportunities

This is a hybrid position with in-office work on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in our Gardena, CA office.

About Foot Locker

Foot Locker, Inc. is a global retailer of shoes and apparel, operating 3,473 primarily mall-based stores in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand as of February 1, 2014. The Company operates in two segments: Athletic Stores and Direct-to-Customers. The Athletic Stores segment is an athletic footwear and apparel retailers whose formats include Foot Locker, Lady Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, Footaction, SIX:02, as well as the retail stores of Runners Point Group, including Runners Point, Sidestep and Run2. The Direct-to-Customers segment includes Footlocker.com, Inc. and other affiliates, including Eastbay, Inc., CCS, and Tredex, which sells to customers through Internet Websites, mobile devices, and catalogs.

Foot Locker Careers

Join the dynamic team at Foot Locker, a leading global retailer of athletically inspired shoes and apparel. At Foot Locker, we empower our employees with unmatched opportunities for career growth and leadership development in the retail industry. Work You’ll Do Become a part of Foot Locker’s vibrant culture by joining our diverse team. We are committed to innovation, leadership, and excellence in every aspect of our business. From sales to corporate functions, Foot Locker offers a variety of job opportunities that allow you to bring your passion and creativity to our team. Transform your career with Foot Locker, where we value diversity and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment. We believe that our team’s varied perspectives and experiences are crucial to our success. Lead with Confidence Step into a role that challenges you, fosters your professional growth, and puts you on the path to leadership. At Foot Locker, you’ll work alongside industry leaders and seasoned professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and experience. Work with a team that’s as passionate about the success of the company as they are about each individual’s career advancement. Foot Locker offers extensive training and development programs, including diversity training and leadership workshops, to help you reach your full potential. Innovative Opportunities Engage in work that matters with a company that’s at the forefront of the retail industry. Foot Locker is constantly innovating to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers and to stay ahead in a competitive market. Our employees enjoy a range of benefits that support their personal and professional lives, including health, dental, and vision insurance, employee discounts, and flexible working arrangements. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Foot Locker internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, develop your skills, and build your professional network. Our internships offer a real-world glimpse into how a major retail company operates, providing you with the tools needed to succeed in your future career. Join Our Team Explore the employment opportunities at Foot Locker and find the position that matches your skills and ambitions. We are always looking for curious, driven, and innovative team players who are ready to make an impact. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest company news, hiring events, and career tips by visiting our Foot Locker Careers page. Customize your job alerts to receive updates on positions that interest you the most. Apply Today Ready to take the next step in your career? Submit your resume, prepare for your interview, and join a company that’s committed to your growth and success. Search Foot Locker jobs now and discover how you can contribute to our dynamic team. Foot Locker is not just a company; it’s a place where you can grow, innovate, and lead. We look forward to welcoming you to our team and helping you achieve your professional goals.
Learn more about Foot Locker
Size
16,555 employees
Market Cap
$3.3 billion
Industry
Retail & Consumer Goods
Net Income
$323 million
Founded
1974
5 Year Trend
+2.9%
Revenue
$7.5 billion
NASDAQ
FL
* Ladders Estimates

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