Financial Controller

The Axel Group is seeking an experienced and hands‑on Controller to oversee the accounting and financial operations of a growing hospitality/restaurant organization. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of progressive accounting experience
, with prior experience in the restaurant, hospitality, food & beverage, or multi-unit environment strongly preferred.

The Controller will be responsible for managing day-to-day accounting operations, financial reporting, month-end close, budgeting, cash management, and internal controls. This position will work closely with ownership and senior leadership to provide accurate financial information and help drive overall business performance.

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting and financial operations for the organization.
• Manage and oversee the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes.
• Prepare and analyze monthly financial statements, including P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.
• Manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll accounting, and bank reconciliations.
• Monitor daily and weekly cash flow, restaurant deposits, credit card transactions, and banking activity.
• Maintain accurate accounting records across multiple locations and/or entities.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Prepare financial reports and provide meaningful analysis to ownership and senior management.
• Assist with annual budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Analyze restaurant-level performance, including sales, labor costs, food costs, beverage costs, operating expenses, and profitability.
• Track and analyze key financial and operational metrics.
• Work with restaurant and operational leadership to identify opportunities to improve margins and control costs.
• Coordinate with external CPA firms, auditors, tax professionals, insurance providers, and other financial partners.
• Oversee preparation of information required for tax filings, audits, and other regulatory requirements.
• Review payroll and ensure accurate recording and reconciliation of payroll-related expenses.
• Monitor inventory accounting and assist with food, beverage, and other cost-of-goods analysis.
• Identify discrepancies, investigate variances, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and company policies.
• Help improve accounting processes, systems, reporting, and financial controls as the organization grows.
• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting staff as needed.

• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• Previous experience as a Controller, Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, or Senior Accountant with increasing responsibility.
• Hospitality, restaurant, food & beverage, or multi-unit experience strongly preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Experience managing the full accounting cycle and month-end close.
• Strong knowledge of P&L analysis, balance sheets, cash flow, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Experience working with multiple locations, entities, or high-volume transactions preferred.
• Strong Excel skills and experience with accounting/ERP software.
• Ability to analyze financial information and translate it into actionable business recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while partnering closely with ownership and operational leadership.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

The ideal candidate will understand the unique financial challenges of the restaurant and hospitality industry, including:

• Food and beverage cost management
• Labor and payroll analysis
• Restaurant-level P&L reporting
• Daily sales and cash reconciliation
• Credit card processing and deposits
• Inventory and COGS management
• Multi-location accounting
• Cost controls and margin improvement
• Budgeting and forecasting

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Performance-based bonus opportunity
• Health, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid time off
• Opportunity for professional growth and advancement
• Collaborative leadership environment
• Opportunity to play a key role in the continued growth of the organization