Controller - WSS

Overview This hybrid position will be located at our WSS office. Expectations for hybrid in-office schedule is three days a week, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance functions. This role ensures the integrity of financial information, supports operational decision-making, and drives continuous improvement in accounting processes, systems, and controls across a geographically dispersed store network. Reporting to the VP of Finance & Accounting, the Controller leads the accounting team and partners closely with Operations, Merchandising, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Information Technology to support profitable growth and financial discipline. Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Accounting Direct all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll accounting, inventory accounting, fixed assets, and lease accounting. Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. Prepare consolidated financial statements and supporting schedules in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Analyze financial results and explain key variances, trends, and business drivers. Ensure accurate accounting for inventory, vendor rebates, markdowns, shrink, loyalty programs, gift cards, and retail-specific transactions. Manage expectations between Foot Locker/Dick’s and WSS, ensuring clear communication, aligned priorities, and accountability across all parties. Internal Controls & Compliance Develop, maintain, and strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity. Oversee compliance with all accounting standards, tax regulations, and company policies. Coordinate annual external audits and serve as the primary liaison with auditors, as needed. Manage relationships with banking partners, tax advisors, and other external financial service providers. Ensure compliance with sales and use tax, property tax, and other regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions. Retail Operations Support Partner with field operations and district leadership to improve store-level financial performance. Monitor key retail metrics, including gross margin, inventory turns, shrink, labor productivity, and store profitability. Support new store openings, remodels, and other growth initiatives. Provide financial guidance regarding pricing, promotions, inventory investments, and capital expenditures. Inventory & Supply Chain Accounting Oversee inventory accounting processes, including physical inventory counts, cycle counts, shrink analysis, and reserve calculations. Ensure accurate valuation of inventory and cost of goods sold. Collaborate with merchandising and supply chain teams to improve inventory controls and reporting. Evaluate and improve processes related to purchasing, distribution, and inventory management. Work cross‑functionally with Inventory Control, Accounting, and Supply Chain stakeholders to drive consistent practices, resolve discrepancies, and support end‑to‑end supply chain efficiency. Systems & Process Improvement Lead enhancements to ERP, financial reporting, and business intelligence systems. Drive automation initiatives to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. Establish and monitor accounting policies and procedures consistent with company growth objectives. Develop dashboards and KPI reporting for executive leadership. Leadership & Team Development Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting organization. Establish performance objectives and succession plans for accounting staff. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Build organizational capabilities to support future growth and expansion. Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Required Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field CPA certification required 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience 5+ years of leadership experience in retail, consumer products, distribution, or multi-location businesses Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls Experience managing accounting operations for organizations with at least $250M+ in annual revenue Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and financial reporting tools Preferred Experience in a multi-unit retail environment with 50+ locations Experience with inventory-intensive businesses Background supporting private equity-backed, publicly traded, or high-growth organizations Experience implementing ERP or financial system upgrades MBA and/or public accounting experience The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. At Foot Locker, we value innovation, authenticity, and integrity in all that we do. To uphold the security and fairness of our hiring process, we ask that candidates refrain from using AI tools, including ChatGPT, during interviews and assessments. To ensure a smooth and secure experience, please review the following guidelines: Cameras must be on for all virtual interviews. AI tools are strictly prohibited during interviews or assessments. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to create a transparent and equitable hiring experience. Benefits The annual base salary range is $170,000 - $220,000 / year. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the salary for this position. This role is also eligible to receive short term incentives that align with individual and company performance. Salary will be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data. Salary is one component of the WSS total compensation package, which includes the below. Paid Time Off, Paid Parental Leave Life, Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage – Individual and Family Plans Self-Development & Recognition Programs Bonus Incentive Program Advancement Opportunities 401k Retirement Plan and HSA Contributions 30%-50% Employee Discount - Friend & Family Events Community Engagement Opportunities This is a hybrid position with in‑office work on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in our Gardena, CA office. ABOUT WSS: WSS is the premier footwear retailer in the U.S. doing business in neighborhood-based stores. Consumers trust WSS for the best brands, greatest values and largest selection of athletic, dress, fashion and casual footwear for the entire family. Our large store format enables us to showcase thousands of styles from top name brands like Nike, Jordan, Vans, Converse, Adidas, Puma, Skechers, etc. In addition, WSS carries high quality private brands augmenting the breadth of selection to deliver amazing value to our customers. WSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. Financial Reporting & Accounting Direct all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll accounting, inventory accounting, fixed assets, and lease accounting. Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. Prepare consolidated financial statements and supporting schedules in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Analyze financial results and explain key variances, trends, and business drivers. Ensure accurate accounting for inventory, vendor rebates, markdowns, shrink, loyalty programs, gift cards, and retail-specific transactions. Manage expectations between Foot Locker/Dick’s and WSS, ensuring clear communication, aligned priorities, and accountability across all parties. Internal Controls & Compliance Develop, maintain, and strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity. Oversee compliance with all accounting standards, tax regulations, and company policies. Coordinate annual external audits and serve as the primary liaison with auditors, as needed. Manage relationships with banking partners, tax advisors, and other external financial service providers. Ensure compliance with sales and use tax, property tax, and other regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions. Retail Operations Support Partner with field operations and district leadership to improve store-level financial performance. Monitor key retail metrics, including gross margin, inventory turns, shrink, labor productivity, and store profitability. Support new store openings, remodels, and other growth initiatives. Provide financial guidance regarding pricing, promotions, inventory investments, and capital expenditures. Inventory & Supply Chain Accounting Oversee inventory accounting processes, including physical inventory counts, cycle counts, shrink analysis, and reserve calculations. Ensure accurate valuation of inventory and cost of goods sold. Collaborate with merchandising and supply chain teams to improve inventory controls and reporting. Evaluate and improve processes related to purchasing, distribution, and inventory management. Work cross‑functionally with Inventory Control, Accounting, and Supply Chain stakeholders to drive consistent practices, resolve discrepancies, and support end‑to‑end supply chain efficiency. Systems & Process Improvement Lead enhancements to ERP, financial reporting, and business intelligence systems. Drive automation initiatives to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. Establish and monitor accounting policies and procedures consistent with company growth objectives. Develop dashboards and KPI reporting for executive leadership. Leadership & Team Development Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting organization. Establish performance objectives and succession plans for accounting staff. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Build organizational capabilities to support future growth and expansion. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Required Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field CPA certification required 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience 5+ years of leadership experience in retail, consumer products, distribution, or multi-location businesses Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls Experience managing accounting operations for organizations with at least $250M+ in annual revenue Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and financial reporting tools Preferred Experience in a multi-unit retail environment with 50+ locations Experience with inventory-intensive businesses Background supporting private equity-backed, publicly traded, or high-growth organizations Experience implementing ERP or financial system upgrades MBA and/or public accounting experience The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. At Foot Locker, we value innovation, authenticity, and integrity in all that we do. To uphold the security and fairness of our hiring process, we ask that candidates refrain from using AI tools, including ChatGPT, during interviews and assessments. To ensure a smooth and secure experience, please review the following guidelines: Cameras must be on for all virtual interviews. AI tools are strictly prohibited during interviews or assessments. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to create a transparent and equitable hiring experience.