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Executive Restaurant Controller Jobs in California

Corporate Controller

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $132K/yr

This is a key role in our leadership team, reporting directly to the CEO, and you'll play a ... Prior restaurant or services industry leadership experience * Willingness to travel in-state up to ...

Executive Chef

Riverside, CA · On-site

$89K - $109K/yr

... controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager reports to directly to the restaurant Operating Partner or General Manager. Job Responsibilities: * Accountable for ...

... controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager reports to directly to the restaurant Operating Partner or General Manager. Job Responsibilities: * Accountable for ...

Executive Assistant

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame! If you're looking for an innovative, winning, and ... Handle highly confidential and sensitive information requiring secure, controlled, and professional ...

Executive Chef

Riverside, CA · On-site

$89K - $109K/yr

... controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager reports to directly to the restaurant Operating Partner or General Manager. Job Responsibilities: * Accountable for ...

Executive Chef

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$98K - $118K/yr

... controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager reports to directly to the restaurant Operating Partner or General Manager. Job Responsibilities: * Accountable for ...

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Executive Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

The Executive Chef will achieve desired outcomes by planning, implementing, and controlling ... Experience with hotel restaurant systems such as MICROS is required. Certificates & Licenses: Serve ...

Executive Chef

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

The Executive Chef will achieve desired outcomes by planning, implementing, and controlling ... Experience with hotel restaurant systems such as MICROS is required. Certificates & Licenses: Serve ...

Executive Chef

Westlake Village, CA

$74K - $103K/yr

You own the experience for all outlet restaurants, banquets, catering, activations, and in-room ... No surprises--costs, staffing, and ops are controlled KEY STRENGTHS * Strong culinary fundamentals ...

Executive Kitchen Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$73K - $91K/yr

Our newest facilities blend three distinct areas - a polished-casual restaurant, a farm-to-glass ... controlling food cost, controlling labor costs and maintaining safety and sanitation.

Controller

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Report to the executive team on financial performance utilizing KPIs and other data-driven metrics ... restaurants more profitably. Support and develop fellow Directors and managers in the area of ...

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Showing results 21-40

Executive Restaurant Controller information

What is an executive restaurant controller?

An Executive Restaurant Controller is a senior financial professional responsible for overseeing the financial operations of a restaurant or group of restaurants. Their duties include budgeting, financial planning, cost control, auditing, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. They work closely with restaurant management to optimize profitability, analyze financial performance, and implement effective accounting procedures. This role is crucial in maintaining financial health and supporting strategic decision-making within the hospitality industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive restaurant controller?

To thrive as an Executive Restaurant Controller, you need strong financial management, cost control, and analytical skills, often backed by a degree in accounting, finance, or hospitality management. Experience with restaurant management software, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and proficiency in Excel or other financial analysis tools is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for collaborating with culinary and operations teams. These skills ensure accurate financial reporting, profitability, and smooth financial operations in a fast-paced restaurant environment.

How does an executive restaurant controller typically collaborate with other departments to ensure financial efficiency?

An Executive Restaurant Controller works closely with departments such as operations, purchasing, and human resources to maintain financial accuracy and efficiency. They coordinate with kitchen and service managers to monitor food and labor costs, implement inventory controls, and ensure compliance with budgets. Regular meetings with department heads help identify cost-saving opportunities and address discrepancies. This collaborative approach not only strengthens financial performance but also fosters a culture of accountability throughout the restaurant.

What is the difference between Executive Restaurant Controller vs Restaurant Manager?

AspectExecutive Restaurant ControllerRestaurant Manager
Primary FocusFinancial oversight, budgeting, and cost controlDaily operations, staff management, customer service
Required CredentialsAccounting or finance certifications, experience in financial managementHospitality management, customer service experience
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, with some on-site visitsOn-site in restaurant, direct staff interaction
Industry UsageCommon in large restaurant chains and hospitality groupsCommon in individual restaurants and small chains

The Executive Restaurant Controller primarily handles financial management and budgeting, ensuring profitability and cost efficiency. In contrast, the Restaurant Manager focuses on daily operations, staff supervision, and customer satisfaction. While both roles are vital to restaurant success, they differ in scope and responsibilities, with the Controller emphasizing financial oversight and the Manager managing operational tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Restaurant Controller jobs in California?

The most popular types of Restaurant Controller jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Executive Restaurant Controller jobs?

Cities in California with the most Executive Restaurant Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Executive Restaurant Controller job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Corporate Controller

Woodstock's Pizza, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$118K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

This isn't a controller role buried in the back office. At Woodstock's Pizza, you'll be the head of finance and accounting for a 7-unit (and growing) chain that already ranks among the highest-grossing independent pizzerias nationally.


With sales of more than $26 million annually, we have been serving legendary pizzas, brews and good times for 40 years.  We are looking for someone to take us to the next level -- manage and optimize the overall financial health of the organization while maintaining a servant-leadership approach to support our teams. Is this you?


This is a key role in our leadership team, reporting directly to the CEO, and you'll play a critical role in setting strategic direction, leading and developing our accounting team, and improving bottom-line performance.


Location: San Diego, CA in our Pacific Beach Admin Office


Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee accounting and payroll operations, including GL management, AP, AR, inventory, fixed assets, bi-weekly payroll and reporting
  • Own monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial statement delivery
  • Serve as primary financial leader and advisor to company ownership and directors
  • Lead annual budgeting process and participate in strategic financial planning with other company directors for individual stores along with the full company
  • Manage 1 in-house accounting coordinator, and a team of 4-5 external accountants
  • Develop short- and long-term financial forecasts to support operational decision-making
  • Work closely with store management and other directors to identify and report on KPIs to improve business performance
  • Manage company benefit programs, including health, vision, dental, life insurance, LTD, and 401k
  • Modernize accounts payable systems to streamline and automate processes, including approvals, reconciliation, and GL coding
  • Work with CPAs and accounting team to remain compliant with state and local tax law
  • Identify areas for improving and modernizing company bonus policies

Job Type: Full-Time

Other Benefits:

  • Performance-based bonus
  • Eligibility to participate in employee stock-purchase plan
  • Company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
  • 401(k)
  • Cell phone reimbursement plan
  • 3 weeks paid time off
  • Monthly meal credits at all locations

Requirements

 Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field
  • 7 years of progressive accounting and finance experience
  • Demonstrated leadership ability, with a track record of managing multiple projects
  • Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
  • Prior experience with budgeting and forecasting using 3-statement financial models
  • Experience developing and maintaining effective financial controls, including cash and inventory management
  • Must possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and a demonstrated history of decision-making with uncertain inputs
  • Advanced proficiency with restaurant or multi-unit reporting systems, Google suite, and Microsoft Excel
  • Prior restaurant or services industry leadership experience
  • Willingness to travel in-state up to 5% of the time

Preferred Qualifications

  • CPA preferred
  • Experience using Restaurant365
  • Experience automating accounting processes