Controller
Curioso is a collective of architects, interior designers, and artists working together to design meaningful experiences. Projects for our clients represent a range of industries and interests, including hotel & resort, restaurant, multifamily, wellness, workplace, and brand design. We are a diverse, fast-paced, and highly creative design studio driven by curiosity, empathy, and an entrepreneurial spirit. In all we do, we support our clients in keeping People at the forefront with outstanding design.
We are a dynamic multi-cultural design studio with locations in Chicago, IL, and Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico. The Controller position will be located in our Chicago studio.
Position Overview:
The Controller at Curioso will be responsible for day-to-day project Accounting Operations, including accounts receivable, payroll, billing, and tax administration. As a key team member, the Controller will also partner collaboratively with our leadership and department heads through Financial Planning & Analysis to ensure our financial strategies and budgets align with our business objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong sense of purpose, driven by a desire to support our studio’s ongoing growth and financial success.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
Accounting
Monitor and track monthly revenue streams across all projects.
Create and issue monthly project invoices.
Manage company accounts receivable.
Day-to-day management and bookkeeping of operational expenses through Xero.
Oversee and process employee expense reports.
Assist with monthly and quarterly state and federal tax payments. Manage state-by-state employment tax administration.
Process bi-monthly payroll using Gusto and manage monthly 401K contributions.
Financial Planning and Analysis:
Drive the financial performance of the studio through astute financial tracking and analysis.
Provide comprehensive reports on project performance to studio leadership.
Manage a collaborative budgeting process.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Administration.
8+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including at least 2 years in a controller or finance leadership role.
Experience in tracking projects, including costs, invoicing and analyzing profitability.
Excellent analytical, organizational and communication skills.
Professional Working Proficiency in English and Spanish preferred due to our studios in both the US and Mexico.
Proficiency in account software Xero and Gusto, or similar accounting software, as well as Google Workspace, Excel and CMAP.
Professionalism:
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-location team.
Accounting experience in a design company or professional services firm is ideal.
Uphold high standards and ethical principles.
Curioso offers a market-competitive benefits package that includes: eligibility for medical, dental, and vision health care benefits; paid time off and holidays, flexible schedule, retirement, and 401(k) plan.