Fractional Controller & FP&A Lead
Phoenix, AZ · Remote
$150 - $250/hr
We already work with a bookkeeping firm that handles day-to-day transactions. This role is about ... CONTRACTOR
Fractional Controller & FP&A Lead
Phoenix, AZ · Remote
$150 - $250/hr
We already work with a bookkeeping firm that handles day-to-day transactions. This role is about ... CONTRACTOR
Remote Bookkeeping Contractor information
How do Remote Bookkeeping Contractors typically collaborate with clients and team members while working offsite?
Remote Bookkeeping Contractors commonly use secure cloud-based accounting platforms, video conferencing, and project management tools to communicate and share documents with clients and colleagues. Regular check-ins, clear digital documentation, and adhering to deadlines are crucial for maintaining transparency and trust. While the role offers flexibility, proactive communication and responsiveness are essential to ensure all financial records are accurate and up-to-date, and to quickly resolve any queries or discrepancies.
What is a Remote Bookkeeping Contractor?
A Remote Bookkeeping Contractor is a professional who manages financial records, tracks transactions, and reconciles accounts for businesses or individuals while working remotely, often as an independent contractor. They use accounting software to maintain accurate ledgers, generate financial reports, and ensure compliance with tax regulations. This role allows businesses to outsource their bookkeeping needs without hiring full-time, in-house staff and offers contractors the flexibility to work from any location.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Bookkeeping Contractor, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Remote Bookkeeping Contractor, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, attention to detail, and experience with bookkeeping practices, often supported by a degree in accounting or relevant certification such as QuickBooks ProAdvisor or a Bookkeeping Certificate. Proficiency in cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Microsoft Excel is typically required. Strong organizational skills, self-motivation, and clear communication help set top contractors apart when working independently with multiple clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining accurate financial records, meeting deadlines, and fostering trust in a remote work environment.
What is the difference between Remote Bookkeeping Contractor vs Remote Accounting Assistant?
| Aspect | Remote Bookkeeping Contractor | Remote Accounting Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Bookkeeping certification or experience | Accounting or finance coursework, basic certifications |
| Work Environment | Independent contractor, remote | Remote, often part of accounting team |
| Employer Usage | Freelance or small businesses | Accounting firms, corporate finance departments |
| Common Search Intent | Hiring or comparing bookkeeping services | Finding support for accounting tasks |
Remote Bookkeeping Contractors focus on recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, and maintaining financial records. Remote Accounting Assistants support broader accounting functions, including data entry, report preparation, and assisting accountants. While both roles are remote and require financial knowledge, bookkeeping contractors specialize in transactional accuracy, whereas accounting assistants handle more administrative and support tasks.
What are popular job titles related to Remote Bookkeeping Contractor jobs in Arizona? For Remote Bookkeeping Contractor jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Bookkeeping Contractor jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Bookkeeping Contractor jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Remote Bookkeeping Contractor jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Remote Bookkeeping Contractor job openings:
$150 - $250/hr
Contractor
Posted 9 days ago
Job description
About the Role
We are a growing, services-based recruiting firm seeking a Fractional Controller to design and oversee our financial reporting, profitability analysis, and forecasting. We already work with a bookkeeping firm that handles day-to-day transactions. This role is about financial structure, insight, and decision support, not data entry.
This is a fractional engagement with the potential to evolve as the business scales.
What You'll Own
Initial Setup (first 30-60 days)
- Design a GAAP-compliant chart of accounts aligned to how the business actually operates
- Define accounting structure for profitability by search, client, and recruiter
- Establish cost allocation logic for recruiter compensation, overhead, and shared expenses
- Define monthly close process and reporting cadence in partnership with the bookkeeper
- Build core financial models, including:
- Search and client-level profitability
- Recruiter productivity and margin analysis
- Cash flow forecasting
- Hiring and headcount impact scenarios
Ongoing (monthly)
- Review monthly close prepared by the bookkeeping firm
- Deliver management reporting with clear insights, not just financial statements
- Maintain and update forecasts and scenario models
- Act as a finance thought partner for hiring, growth, and cash decisions
- Ensure consistency and accuracy across reporting periods
What This Role Is NOT
- Not bookkeeping or transaction entry
- Not payroll processing
- Not AR/AP execution
- Not tax preparation
This role is explicitly focused on designing financial systems and interpreting results, not recording activity.
What We're Looking For
Required
- Prior experience as a Controller, Senior Controller, or Finance Lead
- Strong GAAP and accrual accounting foundation
- Demonstrated FP&A experience, including forecasting, scenario modeling, and variance analysis
- Experience supporting professional services, recruiting, or project-based businesses
- Proven ability to build and maintain:
- Profitability models by client, project, or service line
- Cash flow and hiring forecasts used for real decisions
- Comfort working with QuickBooks or Xero data
- Ability to translate financial data into clear, actionable guidance for operators
Nice to Have
- CPA license
- Prior fractional or startup experience
- Experience partnering with external bookkeeping firms
- Background supporting founder-led or growth-stage companies
Engagement Details
- Fractional, contract-based role
- Expected workload:
- Initial setup: ~10-20 hours total
- Ongoing: ~3-8 hours per month
- Fully remote
- Competitive hourly or monthly retainer based on experience