Controller Jobs in Peoria, IL (NOW HIRING)

At Fortress Bank, we want to be an accessible, responsive, and innovative bank for our customers. That means we strive to work with the greatest people, create the greatest culture, and aspire to be the bank of choice. We ask, "What's Your Vision?" and are committed to helping our clients achieve theirs. We offer a supportive and entrepreneurial environment with numerous opportunities as we expand into new markets. We currently have an opening for a Controller to join our Finance team. This position may be based in Des Moines, Peoria, or Davenport.

The Controller serves as a key member of the Finance team and reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer. This position is responsible for overseeing accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and regulatory compliance while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the Bank's financial information. The Controller will manage the month-end and year-end close processes, support the annual budgeting process, perform financial analysis and variance reporting, assist with FDIC Call Report preparation and review, and serve as a primary liaison with external auditors and regulatory examiners. The role also oversees the Bank's financial reporting systems and partners with leadership to provide meaningful financial insights that support strategic decision-making and the Bank's growth objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee the Bank's accounting functions, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, account reconciliations, and related financial processes.
• Manage and oversee month-end and year-end closing activities, including balance sheet reconciliations, journal entries, financial statement preparation, and overhead cost allocations.
• Prepare and analyze monthly financial statements and management reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Assist the Chief Financial Officer with the development, coordination, and administration of the annual budgeting process.
• Assist in the preparation of financial forecasts and support strategic financial planning initiatives.
• Perform financial analysis and variance reporting to identify trends, risks, and opportunities and provide recommendations to management.
• Review, maintain, and enhance the Bank's internal control framework and accounting procedures to safeguard assets and ensure financial integrity.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable accounting standards, banking regulations, and internal policies and procedures.
• Serve as a primary contact for external auditors, internal auditors, and regulatory examiners and coordinate audit and examination requests.
• Support the preparation, review, and ongoing enhancement of regulatory and financial reporting requirements.
• Participate in the preparation and review of the Bank's FDIC Call Report and develop expertise in regulatory reporting requirements.
• Serve as the primary administrator of the Bank's financial reporting systems and reporting tools, including development of routine and ad hoc reporting.
• Analyze reporting system data and support various departments with financial and operational reporting needs.
• Partner with leadership to provide meaningful financial information and analysis that supports business decisions and long-term organizational goals.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes, reporting capabilities, controls, and efficiencies through technology and process enhancements.
• Support the growth and profitability objectives of the Bank through collaboration with business lines, participation in community and business development activities, and development of strong internal partnerships.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA preferred.
• Banking, financial services, or public accounting experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting principles, and accounting controls.
• Experience working with external auditors, regulatory examiners, and financial reporting systems.
• Experience supporting budgeting, financial reporting, and regulatory reporting activities preferred.
• Familiarity with FDIC Call Reports and regulatory reporting requirements is preferred.

This role will be “in-office and in-the-market,” providing hands-on support and building strong community connections. Our Banking Centers are collaborative and dynamic team environment focused on delivering exceptional service. 

Salary Range $75,000-$125,000

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V