Financial Manager/Controller

Job Title: Financial Manager/Controller

Location: Venice Beach, CA or Brooklyn, NY

Company: The Lighthouse, a division of Whalar

The Lighthouse is an innovative Campus for Creators and their teams, with locations in Venice, CA, and Brooklyn, NY. Our mission is to serve as hubs for creators to learn, make, and belong. We believe in the power of the collective to spark creativity and unlock infinite possibilities. By bringing together original minds and bold spirits, we aim to provoke the next act of the creator economy and support the growth and sustainability of creators’ careers.

About the role:

The Financial Controller will play a critical role in setting up and managing the financial operations of The Lighthouse. This individual will ensure the accuracy of financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and provide strategic financial insights to support the company’s growth and success. The Financial Controller will need to flex up and down as the Lighthouse is being setup. They will be a key player in maintaining the seamless flow from financial ideation to daily operations to annual and overall company performance, all while fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation.

The role will report into the Whalar (parent entity) CFO with a dotted line to the President of Lighthouse.  This role will also be partnering closely with the Whalar Finance Department. 

Here’s what you’ll do on the day-to-day:

• Establish and manage all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Responsible for executing all accounting functions such as AR, AP, Client Billing, Payroll, Banking and Cash Flow management.  
• Familiarity with billing customers, paying vendors, and conducting bank and credit card reconciliation.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Manage and monitor all accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems ensuring compliance with appropriate GAAP standards and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and enforce internal controls to maximize protection of company assets, policies, procedures, and workflow.
• Conduct financial analysis and provide strategic recommendations to senior management to guide financial decisions and enhance profitability.
• Partner with the parent company (Whalar)’s finance department during audits.
• Oversee the preparation and timely filing of all local, state, and federal tax returns.
• Manage cash flow planning process and ensure funds availability.
• Support month-end and year-end close processes.
• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency.
• Integrate financial systems and tools, ensuring seamless operation and data flow.
• Support The Lighthouse team on all financial requests and serve as a liaison between Whalar finance and The Lighthouse.
• Must be able to flex up and down as the finance function for the Lighthouse is being established.

Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a management role.
• Startup experience. 
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and regulatory requirements.
• Proven experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Netsuite experience required.
• Experience in the hospitality industry is preferred.
• System/tools integration experience preferred.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience in the creative, membership or media industry is a plus.

Our values:

At The Lighthouse, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a statement, it’s our collective strength. Our people are our superpower. We champion a culture of respect and empathy, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends demographics. We hire individuals of all backgrounds and empower them to thrive, challenge stereotypes, and actively break societal barriers. 

The Lighthouse is a vibrant and inclusive work environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation.Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.Competitive salary and benefits package.The chance to be a part of a forward-thinking company at the forefront of the Creator Economy. An environment where your distinctive voice contributes to a collective force, embodying the spirit of creativity and growth.

Whalar provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship, including hiring, promotions, training, working conditions, compensation, and benefits.