Controller, Finance (m/f/d)

About the Role at RobCo At RobCo, we develop AI-powered robotic systems that make industrial processes more autonomous, efficient, and scalable. Our Autonomous Manufacturing Platform combines modular industrial hardware with physical AI, enabling rapid deployment and continuous optimization in real production environments. With locations in Munich, San Francisco, and Austin, and backed by leading investors such as Lightspeed, Lingotto Innovation, and Sequoia, we are working to redefine industrial automation. At RobCo, we automate the ordinary, so humans can do the extraordinary. To achieve this, we are looking for an ambitious Controller, Finance (m/f/d) to help us establish RobCo as leading provider of automation solutions. The Controller, Finance, will be a critical leader in the Finance team, responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, ensuring compliance with local and international regulations, and providing strategic financial leadership. This role is essential to maintaining robust financial controls while actively driving the adoption of new financial systems, automation, and AI tools to achieve a scalable, "system-first" finance function. The ideal candidate must be both a technical expert in accounting and a strategic thinker with a passion for process optimization and technological leverage. Your Responsibilities Financial Reporting and Compliance - Oversee all general ledger operations, ensuring timely and accurate month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes. - Prepare and publish timely financial statements in compliance with German GAAP (HGB) and IFRS / US GAAP. - Coordinate the preparation of regulatory reporting and manage external audits. - Develop, document, and maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies and procedures. Strategic Systems and Process Leadership - Act as a key stakeholder and driver in the selection, implementation, and optimization of financial systems (ERP, consolidation tools, revenue recognition, etc.). - Identify and implement opportunities for automation and AI-driven solutions to handle rule-based accounting tasks (e.g., invoice processing, reconciliations). - Lead the transformation towards a truly lean, scalable, and systems-first Finance function, minimizing manual intervention. - Collaborate with IT and other departments to ensure seamless integration of financial data and reporting. Operational Management and Leadership - Manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing and tech-savvy accounting team. - Oversee transactional processing, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Payroll, ensuring system efficiency. - Manage cash flow and banking relationships in the region. - Support budgeting and forecasting activities by providing accurate financial data and deep operational insights. We're looking for someone who has: Required - Master's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. - Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or equivalent certification (e.g., German Wirtschaftsprüfer or Bilanzbuchhalter with relevant experience). - Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in accounting, with at least 3 years in a Controller or Assistant Controller role. - Expert knowledge of IFRS and German GAAP (HGB). - Fluency in English and German is required. - Proven experience implementing and optimizing major ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite). Preferred - Experience in a high-growth, manufacturing, or technology company. - Demonstrable track record of leveraging automation, AI, or advanced analytical tools to improve financial processes. - Familiarity with tax compliance (VAT, corporate income tax) in Germany. - Experience managing geographically dispersed teams. Why join RobCo? - Develop modular, software-defined robotics solutions with us that set new standards in automation. - Help us build robots equipped with state-of-the-art AI that perceive their environment, analyze data, and make intelligent decisions i