EMPIRE is a premier and dynamic music company that prides itself on the development and support of independent artists. We are a rapidly growing firm that has been making waves in the music industry, with an extensive portfolio that spans multiple genres and reaches audiences worldwide. We have become the largest independent record label in the U.S., with a significant global presence covering Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, and North and South America. We keep ourselves busy with a large range of music-related services from original content and marketing to distribution and recordings. 

Our commitment to artistic creativity, innovation, and progressive business solutions forms the foundation of our corporate culture. We believe in fostering talent, not just in our artists but also within our professional teams. As we continue to expand, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey.

The Role Remix: EMPIRE is looking for an Assistant Controller or Controller (depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience) to join our downtown San Francisco office. This role will report into the Vice President of Finance and will be responsible for operations in Accounting (G/L), Accounts Receivable, and Accounts Payable. Additional duties include supervising and reconciling activity between several systems and working with the VP of Finance on a variety of structural and compliance activities. You will supervise the Finance Department employees and provide support for implementation and enhancement of systems to improve workflow and reporting. 

Candidates should have a deep understanding of GAAP, good analytical skills, systems experience and aptitude, and very good skills with Excel. Supervisory experience is also preferred.

This position requires a motivated individual comfortable with working in a dynamic environment, and who can take initiative for improving financial operations. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure consistent implementation of corporate accounting principles and procedures in full compliance with US GAAP.
• Implement and manage revenue recognition policies and procedures in accordance with US GAAP and ASC606.
• Develop and own the financial close process and all associated processes and reporting to deliver accurate and timely results to the organization.
• Develop, implement and maintain the internal systems and financial controls consistent with EMPIRE’s policies and regulatory guidelines, ensuring compliance with all local, state and federal tax requirements and filings.
• Lead a team of accounting professionals with responsibilities for the general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, financial reporting, and external audit relationships.
• Provide strong oversight for EMPIRE’s A/P process.
• Provide leadership and vision for scaling the team and our financial infrastructure to keep up with the demands of EMPIRE’s high-growth business.
• Work with department leaders to understand key issues and business drivers.
• Understand and document reporting needs, collaborate on operational issues, develop creative solutions in the absence of perfect systems, and provide business guidance and insight through financial reporting.
• Work with outside auditors and manage the annual audit process.
• Work with all departments to provide data and insights to help managers run the company and make effective decisions.
• Evaluate opportunities for scale and growth and consider ways to drive efficiency and automation.
• Collaborate with the other finance department employees to support overall department goals and objectives.
• Respond to inquiries from the President, other members of the Empire team, and tax advisors.
• Support senior financial management with special projects and workflow process improvements.
• Work with record label finance personnel and other vendors, as needed.

Key Notes for Success:

• 10+ years experience in Finance operations, currently a Director of Accounting, Assistant Controller, or Controller.
• BA/BS in Business or related field with an emphasis in Accounting equivalent experience
• A valid CPA CMA or other related accounting designation
• Very strong knowledge of US GAAP
• Strong skills in data analysis, ability to develop accounting estimates and complex accruals.
• Experience with A/P and A/R transactions and procedures.
• Experience with Federal, State and local compliance activities.
• Experience with Netsuite is a plus. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Very good Excel skills. Must be computer proficient, with good aptitude for systems.
• Organized, patient and deliberate. Ability to multi-task, work under pressure and meet deadlines as required.
• Very good communication skills. Personable and able to work with employees and managers in other departments.

Bonus Beats: 

• Experience with International operations is a plus but not required.
• Music industry experience is a plus.

Pay Range: $150,000 - $180,000/annual salary + benefits + discretionary bonus + profit sharing program

The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

At EMPIRE, we value diversity and always treat all employees and job applicants based on merit, qualifications, competence, and talent. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

If you are passionate about the music industry, and looking for a challenging role in a fast-paced, innovative environment, apply today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Perks Playlist:

• Competitive Compensation Package
• Competitive Benefits Package
• Company Paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Company Paid Health Savings Account (HSA) Contribution
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Paid Time Off (Holidays, Vacation, and Sick) 
• Company 401(k) Plan
• Wellness Resources
• Commuter Allowance
• Cell Phone Allowance

About EMPIRE: Founded in 2010 by Bay Area native Ghazi, EMPIRE is currently leading through its innovative and progressive approach to the digital music era across its label, distribution and publishing arms. 

With its focus on early stage artist development, the San Francisco based company has been instrumental in identifying future icons and launching the careers of both Multi-platinum and Grammy Award winning artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Fireboy DML, Yung Bleu, Migos, Asake, XXXtentacion, and Anderson .Paak to name a few. After this early success, EMPIRE was quickly regarded as a tastemaker in the industry and premier independent record label.  

More than a decade in, EMPIRE continues to grow – expanding the Publishing division with a partnership with superproducer Hit-Boy and his Surf Club collective and acquiring Dirtybird Records in 2022 to amplify the Dance arm. EMPIRE has expanded the team throughout the globe on the African continent, Europe, Asia, North America, and South America. With the company and roster excelling at a breakneck pace, EMPIRE has effectively disrupted a stale business model by bringing its energy, expertise, and acumen to its artists and labels. 

Through crafting bespoke deals that are always in favor of the artist, EMPIRE is able to form a true partnership with each artist and label on its roster. Coupled with their unique software for analytics, recoupment, and royalties, which is available to every partner, the company offers a level of transparency unprecedented in the music industry.