Job Title: Director, Controller
Department: Finance
Reports To: EVP, Finance
Location: Chicago / United Center (In-Office)
Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm / Monday - Friday
Status: Fulltime, Exempt
# Direct Reports: 3
Compensation: The expected annual salary range for this position is $115,000 - $145,000, with final compensation offer based on the candidate's years of experience, skills, qualifications, and overall fit for the role. This role is eligible to participate in the Company's annual bonus program.

Role Summary:

The Director, Controller is a senior leader within the accounting and finance team, responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial operations, reporting, compliance, and internal controls across the Chicago Blackhawks and affiliated entities. This role serves as a strategic partner to executive leadership, driving financial integrity, operational efficiency, and long-term fiscal health. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strong leadership and thrives in a fast-paced, high-performance sports environment.

Primary Responsibilities :

Commercial

• Serve as a key financial advisor to the EVP, Finance and executive team, providing insights to guide strategic decisions
• Evaluate and implement financial systems and technologies to enhance automation, scalability, and reporting capabilities
• Develop and enforce accounting policies that align with GAAP, league standards, and organizational goals
• Partner with department heads to support financial literacy, cost management, and resource allocation

Operational

• Oversee all accounting functions including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, revenue recognition and accounting systems
• Direct monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of financials
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, league reporting requirements, and regulatory filings (e.g., Sales & Use Tax, Amusement Tax)
• Lead annual audits and liaise with external auditors, league officials, and tax authorities
• Monitor and strengthen internal controls, risk management practices, and financial governance

Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting team
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and professional growth
• Align team objectives with broader organizational strategy and performance metrics

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; Master's Degree or MBA preferred
• CPA certification required
• 9+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership roles and public accounting background
• Experience in sports, entertainment, or multi-entity environments strongly preferred
• Expert knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (NetSuite preferred) and Excel
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and manage complex projects
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Passion for sports and understanding of the business of professional athletics a plus
• Ability to adapt to occasional variations in schedule including working nights, weekends, and holidays as business needs dictate based on the event calendar.
• Must demonstrate our organizational values of integrity, curiosity, empathy, collaboration, and originality

What It's Like Working Here:

The Chicago Blackhawks experience isn't just on the ice. Our office, located in the United Center, promotes a fun, engaging, fast-paced and collaborative atmosphere where we can celebrate both hockey and each other. Our commitment to curating an environment where all individuals feel empowered to bring their best self to work each day can be seen throughout our organization. Whether you are a job seeker looking to join the organization, a current member of our amazing team, or someone looking to help support our mission, our goal is the same • to reimagine the potential of hockey through memorable, inclusive experiences.

Perks and Benefits:

Competitive total rewards package, full benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, paid life insurance), employee assistance program (EAP), comprehensive PTO package, social events, volunteer opportunities, and learning and development. Employer-paid breakfast, lunch, parking, on-site gym and training classes, employee ticket program, and more.