Controller - Finance - LATAM

Position Summary GEP is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Controller to support and oversee the finance operations for our legal entities in Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Chile. Based in Costa Rica, this individual will serve as the primary finance lead for the LATAM region, ensuring compliance with local regulations, timely month-end close, accurate financial reporting, and continuous process improvement. This role reports directly to the Senior Director of Finance based in New Jersey. Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Close Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process for LATAM entities (Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile) Prepare and deliver the month-end close package, including detailed explanations for month-over-month variances Maintain accurate financial records in accordance with US GAAP and accrual accounting principles Tax & Compliance Prepare and file local tax returns across all LATAM jurisdictions Maintain local statutory compliance and ensure all filings are submitted on time Provide guidance on local billing requirements and applicable indirect/direct taxes (e.g., VAT, ISR, IVA, CREE, Ingresos Brutos, etc.) Monitor and stay current with regulatory changes across Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Chile Free Trade Zone (FTZ) – Costa Rica Manage and maintain all Free Trade Zone reporting obligations specific to Costa Rica, including compliance with PROCOMER and the Ministry of Finance requirements Ensure accurate tracking and reporting of FTZ incentives, exemptions, and related documentation Coordinate with relevant government agencies and internal stakeholders to meet FTZ regulatory deadlines Payments & Treasury Ensure timely processing of payments to vendors, employees, and tax authorities Oversee accounts payable workflows to prevent late payments and penalties Team Leadership & Process Improvement Oversee and mentor the LATAM finance team, providing day-to-day guidance and performance direction Identify and implement process improvements to drive efficiency, accuracy, and scalability across finance operations Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, legal, and HR teams to align on financial matters Business Partnering & Communication Serve as the primary point of contact for LATAM finance queries from internal stakeholders Present financial results and analysis to the Senior Director of Finance Communicate clearly and proactively with leadership across time zones (US and LATAM) Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or local equivalent preferred) 5+ years of progressive finance/accounting experience, including exposure to multi-country LATAM operations Strong knowledge of US GAAP and accrual accounting Hands-on experience with local tax filings and statutory compliance in one or more of: Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile Experience with Costa Rica Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca) reporting, including PROCOMER filings and FTZ regulatory compliance Experience with month-end close and financial reporting processes Demonstrated ability to lead and develop finance team members Experience implementing or improving finance processes and controls Fluent in Spanish and English (written and spoken) — required Preferred / Nice to Have Proficiency in Portuguese is a strong plus, given the Brazil entity coverage Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics 365) Experience working in a multinational or shared services environment Knowledge of intercompany accounting and transfer pricing concepts Core Competencies Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent verbal and written communication skills across multiple levels of leadership Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines across jurisdictions Proactive and detail-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset Collaborative team player comfortable working in a fast-paced, global environment Additional Information This role requires occasional coordination with team members and leadership in the US Eastern Time Zone Some overlap in working hours with the NJ-based Senior Director of Finance will be expected Travel to other LATAM entities may be required periodically