Assistant Controller/Controller Property Accounting

Overview

This newly established leadership position within a Southern California-based real estate investment firm offers direct involvement in overseeing property accounting for a diverse portfolio of over 90 multifamily assets. Reporting to the Vice President of Accounting, the role demands a seasoned accounting professional with a strong background in public accounting and property management financials, ready to influence month-end close, audit coordination, and consolidated financial reporting. The position is fully onsite in West Los Angeles, providing hands-on leadership of a sizable accounting team and exposure to complex real estate accounting challenges under GAAP.

Title: Assistant Controller/Controller Property Accounting
Industry: Real Estate Investment and Property Management
Location: Greater Los Angeles

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor accounting managers and senior accountants responsible for closing books across a large multifamily property portfolio.
• Oversee all facets of property accounting including budgeting, forecasting, and preparation of consolidated financial statements on a quarterly basis.
• Coordinate and support the annual audit and tax processes by managing documentation, workpapers, and communication between internal teams and external auditors or tax consultants.
• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and month-end and year-end close activities to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to delegate tasks, implement process improvements, and complete special accounting projects.
• Supervise select functions of the accounts payable team to maintain efficient workflow and internal controls.
• Stay informed on industry developments and best practices in property accounting to drive continuous operational enhancements.

Qualifications

• Must-Have:
  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field with a concentration in accounting.
  • Active or inactive CPA license, or completion of all CPA exam sections.
  • Minimum of 10 years’ progressive experience in property accounting, including at least five years in a leadership or managerial role.
  • Strong foundation in GAAP and financial reporting specific to real estate entities.
  • Experience working in or transitioning from a Big 4 or top regional public accounting firm, ideally at the senior or manager level.
  • Proven ability to lead, develop, and manage accounting teams effectively.
  • Proficiency with property management accounting software systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Nice-to-Have:
  • Familiarity with Entrata Core or similar property accounting platforms.
  • Experience managing audit and tax processes in a real estate or private equity environment.
  • Exposure to process improvement initiatives and special project leadership within accounting functions.