Job Details

Controller

Department: G&A

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Washington, DC

Compensation: $120,000 - $160,000 / year

Description

The Bulwark isn't just a business, it's a mission. We're a fast-growing media company founded to provide analysis and reporting in defense of liberal democracy. Our podcasts, newsletters, and videos cut through the noise to deliver sharp, independent analysis.

Inside The Bulwark, we live by a few simple rules:candor over spin, collaboration over ego, and a commitment to making each other better. We're a nimble, fast-moving team that takes our work seriously-but not ourselves.

We're looking for a Controller to join our team.

About the Role

The Controller leads The Bulwark's accounting function, ensuring discipline, sound controls, and reliable reporting. This is a hands-on role running day-to-day accounting while building the systems that allow a fast-moving media company to scale.

You'll partner closely with the Director of Finance and operate with real autonomy. We're looking for someone experienced and steady-a professional who can run accounting cleanly, tighten processes where needed, and bring structure without layering on bureaucracy.

Our revenue model includes recurring subscriptions, advertising and sponsorship revenue, merchandise sales, and live events. The Controller ensures these streams are accounted for accurately and consistently, with controls and documentation that hold up as we grow.

What You'll Do

• Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process, including preparation and review of financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Establish and maintain revenue recognition policies across subscription, advertising, sponsorship, and event revenue.
• Oversee general ledger, revenue recognition, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets.
• Oversee accounts payable processing, including corporate credit card expense processing.
• Manage accounting across subscription, advertising, sponsorship, and event-related income.
• Oversee payroll processing, working closely with HR.
• Oversee 401k administration and compliance.
• Oversee various business and tax filings in all applicable jurisdictions.
• Oversee cash management, including bank reconciliations and coordination of treasury activities.
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and documentation to ensure audit readiness and compliance.
• Manage external audit, tax, and compliance relationships and prepare requests as needed.
• Partner with the Director of Finance to support reporting, forecasts, and financial analysis.
• Evaluate and improve accounting systems and workflows to support scale, automation, and accuracy.
• Build and manage a small accounting team over time as needed.

What You Bring

• 7-10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including controllership or senior accounting leadership.
• CPA strongly preferred.
• Deep knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Experience managing audits and working with external accounting firms.
• Experience in media, digital content, subscription, SaaS, or other recurring-revenue businesses preferred.
• Experience scaling accounting processes in a company moving from early growth toward a more mature operating structure.
• Ability to operate independently and take ownership of the accounting function.
• Strong attention to detail and sound judgment.
• Comfort working in a fast-moving, founder-led environment where priorities evolve, and practical solutions matter.
• Enthusiasm for the Bulwark's mission and work.

What We Offer

We want people at The Bulwark to thrive and provide:

• Full employer-sponsored health plans
• 401(k) plan with employer match
• Flexible, uncapped vacation and paid time off
• Commuter benefits and Employee Assistance Program

This role is remote. We're mission-driven, collaborative, and direct-and we value people who bring ideas and energy to the table.

Interested? We'd love to hear from you. Submit your resume and a brief note about your interest in joining The Bulwark.