Restaurant Group Controller

We are seeking an experienced Controller to join a growing, multi-unit restaurant and hospitality organization based in Los Angeles, CA. This leadership role is ideal for an accounting professional with a strong background in restaurant finance, multi-location operations, and financial reporting. The Controller will oversee all accounting functions, ensure financial accuracy, strengthen internal controls, and provide strategic financial insights that support continued growth. This position works closely with executive leadership to drive financial performance, improve operational efficiency, and maintain compliance across multiple restaurant locations. Compensation $120,000 – $140,000 base salary Market Comparison: The current market for Restaurant Controllers in the Los Angeles area generally ranges from $115,000 to $160,000+ , depending on company size, number of locations, and overall revenue responsibility. Our compensation package is competitive for experienced Controllers managing multi-unit restaurant operations and offers strong long-term growth potential.

Responsibilities

• Lead all day-to-day accounting operations for a multi-unit restaurant organization.
• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Manage the month-end and year-end close processes.
• Oversee General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, payroll accounting, fixed assets, and bank reconciliations.
• Develop and maintain budgets, forecasts, and financial models.
• Analyze restaurant financial performance and identify opportunities to improve profitability.
• Monitor food cost, labor cost, operating expenses, and key restaurant performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Coordinate annual audits and work with external auditors and tax professionals.
• Develop and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and treasury functions.
• Support acquisitions, restaurant openings, and expansion initiatives.
• Partner with operations leadership to improve financial decision-making.
• Mentor and develop the accounting team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• CPA designation is strongly preferred.
• 5+ years of Controller or senior accounting leadership experience.
• Restaurant, hospitality, food service, or multi-unit retail accounting experience is required.
• Experience managing accounting for multiple restaurant locations.
• Strong understanding of restaurant financial reporting and operational metrics.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Knowledge of GAAP and internal controls.
• Experience overseeing payroll, AP, AR, and general accounting operations.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience with ERP and restaurant accounting systems is highly preferred.

Preferred Experience Candidates with experience in any of the following environments are highly encouraged to apply:

• Multi-unit restaurant groups
• Full-service restaurants
• Casual dining
• Upscale dining
• Fine dining
• Fast casual restaurant groups
• Hospitality management companies
• Franchise or corporate restaurant organizations

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is:

• A strategic financial leader with exceptional analytical skills
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
• Experienced in improving financial processes and internal controls
• A collaborative business partner who can effectively support restaurant operations
• Able to communicate financial information clearly to executive leadership

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Performance bonus opportunity
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• 401(k) with company match (where applicable)
• Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization
• Professional and collaborative work environment

If you have a strong background in restaurant accounting, multi-unit financial management, and operational finance, we'd love to hear from you. Join a dynamic hospitality organization where your financial leadership will directly contribute to operational excellence and long-term growth.