Controller, Finance & Banking, Financial Compliance

Controller – Denver, CO (In-Office)

Salary: $134,000 - $228,000 per year (actual offer based on experience, location, education, and/or skills).
Final date to receive applications: 12/28/2025.

Location: Denver, CO (In-Office)

Job Type: Full-Time Exempt

Pay Range: $134,000 — $228,000 USD

You're a highly experienced, hands‑on accounting leader with deep expertise in corporate accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance. You thrive in dynamic environments where strategic thinking, team development, and process improvement are key to success. With strong US GAAP knowledge and a background in financial services or banking, you bring both technical depth and leadership maturity to guide internal teams and external partners alike.

If you're ready to lead a high‑performing accounting team and shape financial reporting at a growing, values‑driven institution, this role is for you.

As Controller, you'll lead First Western's corporate accounting function with a strong focus on financial accuracy, reporting integrity, and regulatory compliance. You'll manage accounting operations, oversee external audits, guide tax and technical accounting matters, and ensure compliance with internal controls and US GAAP. In this highly visible leadership role you will collaborate across departments, mentor a skilled team, and support the CFO in strategic financial initiatives.

• Lead all corporate accounting functions, including financial closings, account reconciliations, and financial statement preparation in accordance with US GAAP.
• Develop and enforce accounting policies and procedures to support compliance, improve internal efficiency, and guide financial decision‑making.
• Manage internal controls and ensure compliance with FDICIA, SOX, and SEC regulations, including timely filing of all external financial reports.
• Supervise and mentor the Accounting team, fostering a high‑performing environment that prioritizes accuracy, collaboration, and professional development.
• Oversee tax accounting and compliance processes, coordinating with external consultants on tax positions and ensuring defensible reporting.
• Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors, managing year‑round audit activities, reviewing findings, and driving resolution of issues.

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
• 10‑15 years of accounting experience in a public company within the banking or financial services industry.
• 5‑7 years of supervisory experience (preferred).
• CPA certification (preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/financial systems; experience with Microsoft Great Plains and SEC reporting is a plus.
• Proven leadership, team development, and organizational skills.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP, internal controls (FDICIA/SOX), and public company audit and reporting requirements.
• Ability to analyze complex accounting issues, streamline processes, and produce high‑quality deliverables under tight deadlines.

• Competitive base salary: $134,000 - $228,000 per year, plus strong bonus potential.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Paid parking and transportation benefits.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and bank holidays.
• Access to training and professional development programs.
• Sponsorship and support for obtaining professional certifications.
• A culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared success.

At First Western Trust, we're more than just a financial institution—we're a team of forward‑thinkers committed to excellence, innovation, and impact. Our culture thrives on teamwork and mutual respect, grounded in the belief that diverse perspectives fuel creativity and help us tackle challenges in fresh, effective ways. We celebrate each other’s successes, welcome new ideas, and take personal ownership in everything we do.

A genuine desire to positively impact our clients, communities, and one another drives our work. We meet challenges with a growth mindset, act with urgency and…