Corporate Controller

Korn Ferry has been exclusively retained to lead a confidential search for a Corporate Controller on behalf of a newly independent aerospace and defense company headquartered in California. Formerly part of a large publicly traded defense prime, the business now operates as a standalone platform with significant growth ahead.

Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, the Corporate Controller will serve as the technical and corporate accounting leader and a true right hand to the CFO. This is a hands‑on role with ownership across financial reporting, government contract accounting, CAS and FAR compliance, audit execution, ERP optimization, and acquisition integration. The Controller will partner closely with engineering, operations, and program leadership to ensure accurate EAC reporting, disciplined cost management, and scalable financial infrastructure to support continued expansion.

This opportunity is well suited for a finance leader who thrives in carve‑out and build environments and can operate with urgency and sound judgment in evolving situations. The role offers a 9/80 schedule and meaningful long‑term leadership upside toward a future VP Finance or CFO pathway.

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close in a project‑driven, government contracting environment, delivering timely, GAAP‑compliant financial reporting
• Own technical accounting across ASC 606 (percentage‑of‑completion), cost accounting, inventory, fixed assets, and complex contract structures
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)
• Stabilize and optimize Deltek Costpoint following a recent implementation, strengthening systems, processes, and internal controls
• Support M&A diligence, acquisition accounting, and post‑close integration activities
• Serve as a proactive advisor to the CFO, elevating risks, driving accountability, and strengthening audit readiness
• Build, mentor, and elevate a high‑performing accounting organization in a high‑change environment

• CPA required;
  Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
• 12+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience, preferably within aerospace and defense or government contracting environments
• Deep knowledge of U.S. GAAP including ASC 606 (POC), cost accounting, inventory, fixed assets, and revenue recognition in long‑term contract structures
• Demonstrated experience working within CAS and FAR compliance frameworks
• Track record of leading audit processes and interacting effectively with external auditors
• Proven ability to operate in dynamic, evolving environments and drive change with a hands‑on leadership style

Salary Range: $200,000 - $260,000 + 20% Bonus

Location: San Leandro, CA (preferred) or Simi Valley, CA

Schedule: In‑office; 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off)