Controller (Freelance)

About the Role

NowThis is redefining media for a new generation. We’re not just keeping up with culture - we’re shaping it. With 98M+ global viewers each month, we specialize in social-first, short-form storytelling that hits differently. From TikTok to YouTube Shorts, our bingeable content shows up where our audience actually lives.

NowThis Media is seeking an experienced Controller to lead and strengthen our accounting operations as we continue to scale.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a lean environment, enjoys building structure and improving processes, and can bring rigor, organization, and accountability to a growing organization.

The Controller will oversee day-to-day accounting operations, partner closely with the Head of Finance, and play a key role in improving reporting accuracy, strengthening internal controls, and supporting future audit readiness. The role will manage 2–3 accounting team members.

What You’ll Do

Accounting Operations & Close

• Own the month-end close process, including journal entries, accruals, reconciliations, and financial reporting
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure balance sheet integrity
• Prepare monthly financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow reporting)
• Oversee revenue recognition related to advertising and media revenue streams
• Support participation and residual accounting processes, as applicable

Payroll & Production Accounting

• Support payroll processing, commissions, and bonus calculations in partnership with the Head of Finance
• Oversee freelancer and production payroll workflows through third-party payroll providers
• Coordinate union reporting and related compliance requirements

AP / AR Management

• Manage accounting staff responsible for AP and AR workflows
• Oversee accounts payable operations, including coding review, payment processing, and vendor management
• Oversee the revenue and accounts receivable cycle, including billing, collections, and client onboarding coordination
• Monitor collections activity and support cash flow management initiatives
• Oversee employee T&E reconciliation and expense compliance

Audit & Compliance

• Prepare audit schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation
• Support audit readiness initiatives and future audit execution
• Coordinate with external tax advisors on corporate, state, and local filings
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting for external stakeholders

Systems & Process Improvement

• Help implement and optimize accounting systems and workflows
• Improve operational efficiency and strengthen financial processes
• Build scalable accounting infrastructure to support company growth

What We’re Looking For:

Experience

• 6–8+ years of accounting experience, ideally in media, advertising, startups, or high-growth environments
• 2–3+ years managing or supervising accounting staff
• Experience owning the month-end close
• Strong understanding of GAAP and core accounting operations
• CPA strongly preferred
• Prior audit experience or public accounting background preferred

Skills

• Strong organizational and analytical skills
• High attention to detail and process orientation
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication skills and ability to partner cross-functionally
• Experience improving accounting processes and building scalable workflows

Nice to Have

• Media, advertising, or digital content industry experience
• Experience preparing a company for its first audit
• Familiarity with accounting and expense tools such as NetSuite, Ramp, QuickBooks, or Xero

How To Apply

To be considered for this role, please submit your resume and a cover letter. We recognize that you are more than just your resume, and we're eager to get to know the person behind the application.

Compensation & Benefits

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $150,000 to $165,000. An employee's position within this range will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to: relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business needs.

Our Commitment to an Inclusive Workplace

NowThis is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.