Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting Manager

ESC has an exciting opportunity for a Controller – Property Management to lead and oversee all accounting and financial operations for a diverse real estate portfolio that includes Market Rate, LIHTC, and Commercial properties. This role ensures the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting, compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements, and the maintenance of strong internal controls across all managed entities.

The Controller directs the monthly close process, cash management, budgeting, audits, and financial reporting, while providing actionable insights to support strategic decision-making. This position collaborates closely with executive leadership, operations, asset management, and external partners to drive portfolio performance, enhance accounting processes, and ensure consistent application of financial policies across all asset types. The role works hybrid in Kenosha, WI
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• Oversee financial statements and accounting operations for Bear Property Management and all internally and externally managed entities.
• Lead the monthly close process to ensure complete, timely, and accurate financial reporting.
• Monitor management company financial performance against budget and provide variance analysis and insights.
• Manage the financial reporting process to ensure timely and accurate communication to stakeholders.
• Prepare complex journal entries, account reconciliations, fixed asset tracking, and intercompany/cross-entity charges.

• Provide weekly cash and debt position summaries to owners and management.
• Own and manage all banking relationships, including lending and cash management institutions.
• Prepare and oversee disbursement or transfer of funds to vendors, owners, and home buyers.

• Partner with corporate and property management teams to develop annual budgets and forecasts.
• Oversee and review annual CAM (Common Area Maintenance) charge calculations.

• Serve as primary liaison with external accountants and tax preparation firms for audit and compliance matters.
• Ensure adherence to GAAP, LIHTC compliance requirements, and other regulatory standards.
• Manage relationships with insurance providers and oversee monthly insurance billings.

• Assist the Systems Administrator with accounting technology initiatives, including user setup, system enhancements, and workflow best practices.
• Continuously evaluate and improve accounting systems, processes, and procedures to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to review policies and procedures and implement improvements or new standards.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team to ensure high-quality financial outputs and achievement of departmental and organizational goals.
• Provide guidance on core accounting principles and sound business practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (required)
• CPA certification (preferred)
• 7–10 years of relevant accounting experience, preferably in property management or real estate

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and technical accounting standards
• Proficiency with App Folio (required)
• Experience with Real Page (preferred)

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently or collaboratively
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong interpersonal skills and professional judgment

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Accounting/Auditing