Assistant Controller in Buffalo Grove, Illinois at Paragon Micro Incorporated

At Paragon Micro, we're building more than technology solutions—we're building a business driven by innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth. As we expand our organization and launch new business initiatives, we're seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Assistant Controller to help shape the financial foundation that supports our future.

This is more than a traditional accounting role. As Assistant Controller, you'll serve as a strategic partner to Finance and Executive Leadership, combining accounting expertise with business insight to strengthen financial operations, improve processes, and identify opportunities that drive organizational success. From overseeing complex accounting activities and enhancing internal controls to helping design scalable financial infrastructure for new business ventures, you'll play a pivotal role in supporting Paragon Micro's continued growth.

Success in this role requires someone who is equally comfortable diving into technical accounting matters as they are collaborating across departments to solve business challenges. If you're a hands-on accounting leader who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and is looking for the opportunity to expand your impact while preparing for the next step in your career, this is the opportunity for you.

The Assistant Controller is a key member of the Accounting and Finance leadership team responsible for supporting the Controller in overseeing accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and strategic financial initiatives across a multi-entity organization. This role is ideal for a technically strong accounting professional who is ready to expand beyond traditional accounting responsibilities and help shape the future of a growing business.

In addition to ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the Company's financial reporting, the Assistant Controller will partner cross-functionally with Finance, Operations, Sales, Purchasing, and Executive Leadership to improve business processes, enhance financial visibility, identify operational efficiencies, and support strategic growth initiatives—including the accounting design and implementation of new business ventures.

The successful candidate is collaborative, analytical, adaptable, and comfortable balancing detailed technical accounting with high-level business strategy.

Who You Are

You are a collaborative accounting professional who enjoys solving complex business problems—not just closing the books. You thrive in an environment where priorities evolve, processes are continually improving, and your ideas help shape the future of the organization.

You combine technical accounting expertise with business curiosity, are comfortable rolling up your sleeves when needed, and enjoy partnering across departments to drive better financial outcomes. You naturally identify opportunities for improvement, communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, and are motivated by the opportunity to grow into broader leadership responsibilities.

Strategic Financial Leadership

• Partner with the Global Controller to evaluate financial trends, operational performance, and emerging business opportunities.
• Provide thoughtful analysis and recommendations that support sound business decisions and long-term growth.
• Participate in strategic planning initiatives, including expansion efforts, new business opportunities, and operational improvements.
• Develop meaningful financial reporting and KPIs that provide actionable insights for leadership.
• Identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve profitability, strengthen controls, and enhance overall financial performance.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve as a trusted partner to Accounting, Finance, Operations, Sales, Purchasing, and Executive Leadership.
• Provide technical accounting guidance and mentorship to members of the accounting team while fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous development.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging innovation, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional problem solving.
• Lead projects and initiatives that improve operational efficiency, reporting capabilities, and organizational effectiveness.
• Demonstrate flexibility by contributing wherever needed across the accounting function during periods of growth or changing business priorities.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience with increasing responsibility
• Prior supervisory, lead, or Accounting Manager experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and technical accounting principles, including revenue recognition (ASC 606), inventory accounting (ASC 330), and financial reporting
• Knowledge of indirect taxes, including VAT [for Canada and Europe], rules and requirements
• Demonstrated ability to interpret accounting guidance and apply it to complex business transactions
• Experience working in a multi-entity ERP environment (NetSuite preferred)
• Proven ability to improve processes and lead cross-functional initiatives
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to balance strategic priorities while remaining detail-oriented and hands-on

Preferred

• CPA or CPA candidate strongly preferred
• Experience within an IT reseller, technology distributor, managed services provider, or similar environment
• Experience supporting Federal Government contracts or government contracting accounting
• Experience with NetSuite OneWorld
• Experience implementing ERP enhancements or leading system improvement initiatives
• Knowledge of multi-state sales and use tax compliance, Avalara, and indirect tax regulations
• Experience supporting acquisitions, new business launches, or organizational growth initiatives

Compensation Philosophy at Paragon Micro

At Paragon Micro, we offer a base salary up to $150,000 annually, complemented by an annual bonus, paid quarterly. This range reflects the diverse levels of expertise and experiences we seek in our candidates and is intended to provide a general framework—not a guarantee of placement within the range.

Importantly, this base salary and bonus structure does not represent the full scope of our total compensation package, which includes a comprehensive benefits offering, 401(k) retirement plan, and additional performance incentives.

The final compensation offer will be determined based on your unique qualifications, including relevant experience, skills, and the value you bring to the role. We take a thoughtful, equitable approach to compensation, ensuring each offer is competitive and aligned with both market standards and individual contributions.

We are committed to rewarding talent and maintaining transparency as we continue to evolve our practices in line with emerging standards.