Vice President, Controller

Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame. If you’re looking for a fast paced, innovative and welcoming workplace then a career with our Corporate Familia is right for you.

What’s in it for you!

Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance 401(K) Plan with match and immediate vesting Flexible Spending Accounts Basic Life and AD&D/Long Term Disability Vacation + Sick Pay Bonus Compensation for eligible positions Casual Friday’s Bring your dog to work Friday’s Discounts of El Pollo Loco food Discounts on theme parks, movie tickets, sports, hotels and more. Employee referral bonus program

Company & Culture

For over 35 years El Pollo Loco continues to dominate the market in delivering the best citrus-marinated fire-grilled chicken. We opened our first restaurant in 1980 in Los Angeles, and today we are over 450 restaurants strong and still growing! From our products to our people, we’re truly amazing!

POSITION PURPOSE

The Vice President, Controller is responsible for directing and overseeing all accounting functions, financial reporting, and systems to enhance the accuracy, transparency, and strategic value of the company's financial operations. This role goes beyond traditional accounting management, focusing on driving process improvements, fostering cross-departmental collaboration, and implementing strategic initiatives to optimize efficiency and mitigate risk.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Directs and manages a high-performance team to ensure accurate and timely reporting of monthly transactions, emphasizing the strategic importance of financial transparency. Leads the preparation of annual and quarterly reports required by the SEC, overseeing the financial statements and footnotes with a focus on strategic communication. Manages all aspects of the annual financial audit and quarterly reviews, serving as the primary contact for external auditors and driving a strategic timeline for audit activities. Cultivates and manages external relationships, including banking and audit partners, with a focus on strategic collaboration and enhancing overall financial performance. Collaborates with Finance, IT, along with various internal departments and external consultants to identify, coordinate, and implement strategic systems and process improvements, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy. Serves as the Project Manager for system upgrades or implementations, ensuring a strategic focus on data integrity and operational excellence. Supports the CFO, and Finance Department with analysis and analytics, providing insights that enhance transparency into the company’s financial and operational landscape. Drives a strategic approach to financial analysis, highlighting trends and issues critical to informed decision-making. Directs the team responsible for managing cash, loss prevention, and accounts receivables, emphasizing strategic controls and protection of cash balances. Collaborates with tax consultants to oversee the preparation and filing of various tax returns, quarterly and annual tax provisions, and ensures timely processing of tax payments. Participates in strategic tax planning, capturing available credits and incentives to minimize the company's tax position. Coordinates the accounting and compliance of Company Credit Agreements, focusing on reporting, compliance tracking, and agreement research/interpretation. Ensures adherence to reporting filed with lenders, principal and interest payments, and covenant compliance. Supports the Director of Internal Audit to ensure all accounting department processes are documented, emphasizing the strategic importance of internal controls and SOX compliance. Other activities, duties or responsibilities that are assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS – EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required.

Education/Work Experience

BS degree in Accounting/Finance and CPA required. 10 plus years accounting management experience required including at least 2 years’ experience in public accounting and at least two years as a Controller. Multi-unit/state restaurant or retail experience a plus; strong general ledger, accounts payable and fixed asset accounting knowledge required.

License/Certifications

Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license; Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

In-depth knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations related to financial reporting and taxation. Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems and knowledge of emerging technologies and trends in financial systems and software Strong understanding of financial risk factors and strategies for risk mitigation. In-depth knowledge of internal control frameworks and practices. Ability to contribute to the development and execution of the company's financial strategy. Experience with internal and external audit processes and familiarity with best practices and SOX compliance. Experience with successfully recruiting, building, and developing a team (based on current and future needs). Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct in financial management. Must be decisive and able to make fact-based decisions. Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset and skills; meticulous attention to detail Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external business partner and non-financial stakeholders. Ability to manage and lead projects, including system upgrades and process improvements. Strong negotiation skills for dealing with financial partners, auditors, and other stakeholders. Ability to prioritize and plan work assignments and work under pressure of frequent and tight deadlines. Ability to read, write, and interpret complex reports, documents, and correspondence. High level of proficiency with technology including Microsoft Office Suite applications, customized database applications, and internet research tools. Ability to exercise independent judgment on matters of significance to the company. Must be willing and able to travel locally within Southern California and to out-of-state restaurant locations, as needed by car or airplane.

The pay range identified is the hourly or salary rate El Pollo Loco expects to pay for the posted position. This range does not include any benefits or bonus opportunities that might be available for the position based on position and eligibility criteria. Individual pay will vary based on a variety of factors including years of experience, industry experience, education, geography, etc.

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