Financial Controller

About Local Eclectic

Local Eclectic is a 10 year old international e-commerce jewelry brand based in Chicago. We sell jewelry from emerging and independent jewelry designers from across the globe and have a handful of in house brands that we design and manufacture in house. We're a social first brand that has built an authentic community of brand loyalists. We are dedicated to providing a best in class customer experience and offering exceptional, unique and one of a kind products. We are passionate about creating and selling high quality jewelry that is accessible to everyone. At Local Eclectic, we believe that every piece of jewelry is a work of art, a symbol of personal expression, and a connection to something greater; jewelry tells our story. Our mission is to inspire creativity and empower women and this is woven into every aspect of our business

Our brand has grown rapidly over the past few years, and we are looking for a creative, entrepreneurial, self-starter to join our team as an on staff Director of Finance.

We are looking for an experienced Finance Controller to manage the finances of the business, analyze financial data, transactions, payouts, oversee cash planning and forecasting and ensure the financial health of the company. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of accounting principles. This role will play a crucial part in maintaining accurate financial records and providing valuable insights to support strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities:

Invoicing and Bill Pay

• Match invoices to receivables in order to review and verify invoices for accuracy
• Approve invoices for payment
• Manage all bill pay to vendors and international suppliers
• Communicate with vendors to resolve billing discrepancies
• Timely and accurate processing of payments to vendors
• Prepare financial reports as it relates to accounts payable

Financial Data Management and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, including accounts payable and accounts receivable
• Meticulously reconcile all financial transactions on a weekly and monthly basis, including sales, expenses, and inventory to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Post necessary journal entries to adjust accounts and accurately reflect financial activity for the month in Quickbooks

• Prepare and analyze comprehensive monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
• Generate financial reports and present findings and insights to leadership to support strategic decision-making and business growth
• Conduct financial analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement

Budgeting, Forecasting and Cash Flow Planning:

• Assist in the preparation of monthly budgets and cash flow forecasts
• Develop accurate short-term and long-term cash flow projections by analyzing historical data, sales forecasts, and expense trends
• Identify potential cash flow gaps and surpluses, allowing for proactive financial decision-making

Tax Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all state tax regulations
• Collaborate with external accountants and software partners as needed

Expense Tracking:

• Create budgets and a company wide system for tracking and reporting expenses

• Analyze operating expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising operational effectiveness

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. CPA or similar certification is a plus.
• MUST have experience in a consumer based product business
• Proven experience as an accountant or in a similar finance role, preferably in an e-commerce or retail environment
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero) and Microsoft Excel
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial regulations, and tax compliance
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy in financial data management
• Proactive entrepreneurial mindset and work ethic
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and handle confidential information
• Must be based in Chicago or willing to relocate