Job Description

Controller

Location: Denver, CO (In-Office)

Job Type: Full-Time Exempt

Salary: $134,000 - $228,000/YR *Actual offer will be based on experience, location, education, and/or skills*

Applications should be submitted for consideration no later than 1/29/2026.

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Who We're Looking For

You're a highly experienced, hands-on accounting leader with deep expertise in corporate accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance. You thrive in dynamic environments where strategic thinking, team development, and process improvement are key to success. With strong US GAAP knowledge and a background in financial services or banking, you bring both technical depth and leadership maturity to guide internal teams and external partners alike. If you're ready to lead a high-performing accounting team and shape financial reporting at a growing, values-driven institution—this role is for you.

About the Role

As Controller, you'll lead First Western's corporate accounting function with a strong focus on financial accuracy, reporting integrity, and regulatory compliance. You'll be responsible for managing accounting operations, overseeing external audits, guiding tax and technical accounting matters, and ensuring compliance with internal controls and US GAAP. In this highly visible leadership role, you'll collaborate across departments, mentor a skilled team, and support the CFO in strategic financial initiatives.

What You'll Do

• Lead all corporate accounting functions, including financial closings, account reconciliations, and financial statement preparation in accordance with US GAAP.

• Develop and enforce accounting policies and procedures to support compliance, improve internal efficiency, and guide financial decision-making.

• Manage internal controls and ensure compliance with FDICIA, SOX, and SEC regulations, including the timely filing of all external financial reports.

• Supervise and mentor the Accounting team, fostering a high-performing environment that prioritizes accuracy, collaboration, and professional development.

• Oversee tax accounting and compliance processes, coordinating with external consultants on tax positions and ensuring defensible reporting.

• Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors, managing year-round audit activities, reviewing findings, and driving resolution of issues.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.

• 10–15 years of accounting experience in a public company within the banking or financial services industry.

• 5–7 years of supervisory experience (preferred).

• CPA certification (preferred).

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP/financial systems; experience with Microsoft Great Plains and SEC reporting is a plus.

• Proven leadership, team development, and organizational skills.

• Strong knowledge of US GAAP, internal controls (FDICIA/SOX), and public company audit and reporting requirements.

• Ability to analyze complex accounting issues, streamline processes, and produce high-quality deliverables under tight deadlines.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary: $134,000 – $228,000/YR , plus strong bonus potential.
  401(k) plan with employer match.
  
• Paid parking and transportation benefits.
  
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including:
  Health savings accounts (HSA)
  
• • Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
    
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
    
  Generous paid time off and bank holidays.
  
• Access to training and professional development programs.
  
• Sponsorship and support for obtaining professional certifications.
  
• A culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared success.

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Who We Are

At First Western Trust, we're more than just a financial institution—we're a team of forward-thinkers committed to excellence, innovation, and impact. Our culture thrives on teamwork and mutual respect, grounded in the belief that diverse perspectives fuel creativity and help us tackle challenges in fresh, effective ways.

We celebrate each other's successes, welcome new ideas, and take personal ownership in everything we do. A genuine desire to positively impact our clients, communities, and one another drives our work. We meet challenges with a growth mindset, act with urgency and accountability, and constantly strive to raise the bar for ourselves and our clients.

Leadership at First Western means setting an example and fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and respect. Whether you're just beginning your journey or bringing years of experience, you'll find a welcoming community where your contributions are valued and your potential is boundless.

We expect our people to:

• Demand and reward excellence.
• Take action and responsibility.
• Collaborate, communicate openly, and give/receive feedback with trust.
• Go above and beyond to do what's right—always.

If that sounds like you, you'll fit right in.

Learn more at myfw.com or email Talent.Management@myfw.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer

First Western Trust is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where every team member is valued and given the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. For accommodation requests, please contact Talent.Management@myfw.com.

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