Corporate Controller

Duke Corporate Education is seeking a strategic and experienced Corporate Controller to lead the day-to-day financial operations and regulatory compliance of our global organization. This role is responsible for managing all facets of accounting operations, including financial reporting, internal controls, policy development, and regulatory compliance. The Controller will play a key leadership role in optimizing financial systems and processes while ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial data across multiple jurisdictions.

At Duke Corporate Education (Duke CE), we empower leaders at all levels to be catalysts of change in their organizations and, ultimately, in society. Duke CE is the premier global provider of leadership solutions in context. We design and deliver advisory services and customized leadership development to propel organizations forward. With delivery in over 85 countries, Duke CE works with clients to co-create the right solution for any level of leadership, from mid-level managers to c-suite executives. Together, we transform leaders and business, creating sustainable impact at scale and speed. 

This role is based in our office in Durham, NC, four days per week.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Operations

• Lead global accounting operations including AR/AP, treasury, cost accounting, revenue recognition, and general ledger.
• Oversee global cash management and ensure accurate fund transfers and account balancing.
• Provide timely and insightful financial reports and analysis.
• Maintain robust internal controls and ensure data integrity across systems.
• Ensure timely and accurate submission of tax returns and regulatory filings.
• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to meet compliance standards.

Regulatory Compliance & Controls

• Develop and document accounting policies and business processes.
• Provide guidance on technical accounting and regulatory planning.
• Act as Corporate Secretary for Duke CE and its subsidiaries.
• Manage relationships with external advisors and corporate secretarial service providers.
• Advise on cross-border payments and contractor engagement compliance.

Team Building and Continuous Improvement

• Build and lead a high-performing finance team.
• Implement performance management and career development practices.
• Identify and lead process improvements and system optimization initiatives.
• Drive projects to evolve the finance function in alignment with business growth.

Education and Experience

• CPA required.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in financial or public accounting.
• Experience in an international professional services firm preferred.
• At least 5 years in a global finance function within a multi-national corporation or equivalent public accounting exposure.
• Proven experience managing teams and leading finance operations.

Skills and Abilities

Project Management

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proven experience in project and stakeholder management.

Client Relationship Management

• Ability to build credibility with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• High client service orientation.

Financial Management

• Deep understanding of US GAAP and working knowledge of IFRS.
• Knowledge of international tax, income, VAT, and treasury.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data.

Technical Proficiency

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP systems.
• Skilled in workflow development and process documentation.
• Strong problem-solving and data analysis capabilities.

Business Acumen

• Commercial mindset with a focus on risk mitigation.
• Operates with integrity and sound judgment in legal and ethical matters.

Leadership

• Demonstrated ability to lead and engage teams.
• Committed to developing talent through feedback and communication.
• Brings energy and motivation to teams and projects.