Controller

Ritter Communications is the largest privately held telecommunications provider serving exclusively the Mid-South, offering world-class broadband fiber, telecom, video, cloud and data center services. The company has grown rapidly over the years, investing millions recently in technology infrastructure and is now serving 155 communities and more than 57,000 customers in Arkansas, Texas, Missouri and Tennessee. Headquartered in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Ritter Communications invests heavily in the communities it serves by deploying proven, best-in-class infrastructure and technology, while coupling it with a world-class customer-focused experience.

General Summary:

The Controller provides overall leadership, control, and vision for the accounting function, while also serving as a mentor, developer, and thought leader capable of pioneering and sponsoring "new thinking" in the organization. This position is responsible for the daily activities of four major areas in the company: historical accounting/reporting, treasury management, internal controls / risk management and external audit and other regulatory reporting. Will work closely with the Vice-President of Financial Planning & Analysis to assist in the development of budgets and forecasts.

This role requires a seasoned professional with proven team leadership and development skills, the ability to build strong working relationships with senior executives, and the ability to analyze accounting/financial data to identify and communicate meaningful information. Must be strong technically, possess excellent leadership and analytical skills, and be experienced in improving systems and processes.

Essential Job Functions:

• Leads, mentors, and develops a high performing team of accounting professionals; creates a culture focused on continuous improvement and promotes professional development;
• Oversees preparation and communication of all external accounting reports and special reports or analyses required by executive management, investors, the Board of Directors, banking relationships, and outside auditors;
• Communicates and enforces corporate policies and procedures based on "best practice" designed to ensure that the function is meeting the needs of its many customers;
• Develops and ensures execution of formal accounting and cash management policies and procedures, internal controls and internal audit methodologies;
• Supervises the maintenance of timely and accurate records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
• Ensures the timely close of monthly, quarterly and annual financials and publishing of financial statements, including account reconciliations;
• Responsible for coordination of the annual external audit and associated tax returns, including provision of necessary documentation and support to external auditors, and assists in review of audit reports, tax returns and other documents prior to issuance;
• Coordinates Risk Management activities including filing claims, application for renewals and validating reimbursements, and assists with annual company Risk Assessment;
• Reviews cash management activities and weekly cash forecast to ensure availability of funding for operations and capital expenses;
• Travels to customer sites, project areas, business related events, and other Ritter Communications locations as required;
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong accounting and financial acumen with excellent analytical ability and sound decision making, with a focus on accuracy and attention to detail;
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a focus on continuous improvement;
• Strong and effective verbal and written communications skills including ability to facilitate discussions with diverse audiences with a wide range of technical knowledge; Listens carefully and encourages/accepts other points of view, and can distill perspectives into positive actionable outcomes;
• Ability to manage and foster the development of team members, while maintaining a self-starter attitude;
• Highly collaborative team player, with the ability to develop effective working relationships across the organization;
• Proven ability to build strong working relationships with other departments and senior executives;
• Knowledge of cash flow projection and management;
• Good working knowledge of the telecom industry;
• Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills;
• Understanding of accounting principles and financial statement relationships;
• Proven ability to operate under tight deadlines;
• Ability to effectively lead teams across multiple functions and geographies;
• Ability to manage numerous, competing priorities;
• Ability to use various software programs including accounting, billing, budgeting, and financial modeling systems;
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and motivate professional staff;
• Ability to travel for business requirements; must possess a valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or related field, C.P.A. or other certification highly desired, plus eight to ten years of related experience.

Ritter Communications is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We strive to maintain a drug-free workplace.

We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefits package including health, dental, vision, cancer, accident and life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match, flexible spending accounts, free gym membership, company discounts, tuition reimbursement, paid training, paid leave, and much more!