Controller/Business Manager

At Melara Enterprises, we are proud to operate a portfolio of trusted brands including Baton Rouge Business Report, 225 Magazine, inRegister, 1012 Industry Report, StudioE, and the Business Report Leadership Academy, all of which inform, connect, and strengthen our community. Our work highlights the people, organizations, and ideas that shape Baton Rouge, contributes to leadership development, and plays a meaningful role in enhancing the quality of life across our region.

We've built a culture grounded in collaboration, accountability, and continuous growth where individuals are challenged, supported, and empowered to develop both professionally and personally. As we continue to evolve, we are also embracing transformational technologies, including AI, to improve how we operate, make decisions, and serve our clients and community.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to that mission while working alongside a high-performing, team-oriented group committed to excellence and to play a key role in advancing both our operational performance and our adoption of forward-looking tools and systems.

Role Purpose and Function

Role Title: Controller/Business Manager Department: Business

Accountable Manager: CEO Role Type: Manager

General Role Description: Manages team members and performs various business department tasks to help achieve financial goals and results to fulfill our mission.

Key Role Accountabilities:

Lead the month-end close process, including preparation and review of journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analysis; deliver timely, accurate financial reporting (balance sheet, income statements by division, statement of cash flows, comprehensive income, monthly recap, and reforecast/projection).
Prepare and maintain financial reporting packages and performance dashboards for executives, management, and sales teams to support decision-making.
Manage bi-weekly payroll processing (salary, hourly, and commissions), including calculation, approval, and funding.
Oversee cash flow and banking activity to ensure liquidity and timely payment of obligations; execute fund transfers and complete bank borrowing base reporting as needed.
Lead accounts payable functions, including invoice approval, general ledger coding, payment execution, and 1099 reporting compliance.
Ensure timely and accurate credit card processing.
Supervise accounts receivable, billing, and cash application processes to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with KPIs.
Develop, maintain, and track the annual budget, providing insights and variance analysis as needed.
Coordinate with external HR vendors to support employee benefits administration (ICHRA, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, life, disability, and 401(k)) and other HR functions.
Oversee administrative operations (reception, office supplies, facilities, and internal communications) to ensure efficient day-to-day business functions.
Act as a key member of the executive team, contributing to strategic planning and overall business operations.
Perform financial analysis and develop proforma statements on an as needed basis to assist with business decisions an evaluation.
Prepare and file limited state, city, and federal reports.

Requirements of All Associates

Applies best efforts and full capability each day to completion of responsibilities.
Supports and demonstrates our cultural expectations – Our Way – Mission/Vision/Values/Passions
Effective interpersonal communication and presentation skills
Flexibility to adapt to a changing work environment, embracing emerging technology including AI, and handling multiple priorities

Minimum Role Requirements

Discreet with confidential company and employee information
Bachelors degree in accounting or finance
Entrepreneurial spirit, business experience and/or knowledge
360 thinker who finds creative solutions to perform duties and improve processes
Intermediate knowledge of enterprise software applications – Microsoft Office, CRM systems, Enterprise systems, Paycor, etc.

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Melara Enterprises, LLC

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Controller/Business Manager