Controller

Create is hiring a Controller to build and lead our accounting function. In this role you will take end-to-end ownership of our financial reporting, optimize accounting processes, elevate internal controls, lead audit readiness, and provide company leadership with clear, accurate, and decision-grade financial insight. This is a high-impact role for a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and drives initiatives through completion with minimal oversight. You will work closely with Finance, Operations, Supply Chain, Marketing, company leadership, and our fractional accounting firm to ensure accounting excellence. This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to step into a true #1 accounting seat and build the function the right way. What You'll Do: Financial Reporting & Close Partner closely with our fractional accounting team to own and continuously improve the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness Prepare GAAP-compliant financial statements Partner with the VP of Finance to deliver investor and board-ready reporting packages with thoughtful variance analysis and commentary Inventory & Retail Accounting Optimize and formalize our inventory accounting processes and become an expert in our ERP system (Fulfil) Partner with operations team to ensure accurate inventory accounting, including proper valuation, receipt processing, landed cost allocation, and reconciliation of physical counts to system records Establish and maintain robust inventory controls, including cycle counting procedures, variance investigation protocols, and obsolescence reserves Oversee cost accounting processes to ensure accurate COGS calculation and margin reporting across product lines and channels Own accounting treatment of trade spend, deductions, chargebacks, and retail programs, ensuring accurate accruals and gross-to-net visibility Treasury / Cash Management and AP/AR Partner with Finance to manage cash positioning across operating and savings accounts and maintain cash flow forecasts to provide visibility into expected inflows and outflows Identify opportunities to improve cash efficiency and optimize working capital With support from fractional accounting team, own the AP and AR processes and implement industry best practices Audit & Technical Accounting Lead preparation for the company's first external audit Build audit-ready documentation, internal control frameworks, and formal accounting policies Serve as primary liaison with external auditors Research and document technical accounting positions as needed Leadership & Cross-Functional Partnership Over time, hire, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting team Partner with finance on budgeting, forecasting and variance analysis Support financing, investor diligence, and strategic initiatives Present financial results and insights to senior leadership Requirements CPA with 8-12+ years of accounting experience, preferably within CPG Deep knowledge of US GAAP Strong understanding of inventory, cost, and retail accounting Experience leading or participating in external audits Technical experience working with ERPs and inventory management systems Builder mindset with strong attention to detail and ownership Benefits Competitive compensation including salary and equity Fully-paid health, dental, and vision insurance Downtown Manhattan office (4 days in office), with flexible work setup and 15 days of PTO