Controller
Gaines Investment Trust
Location: La Jolla, CA (Corporate Office)
Compensation: $165k – $175k + bonus based on experience
Join a Legacy of Generational Real Estate Excellence
Gaines Investment Trust is a family-owned, vertically integrated real estate investment company with over 60 years of proven success. We own and manage a diverse, generational real estate portfolio across 6 states, including more than 8,000 apartment homes. Because we manage our assets exclusively for ourselves, we prioritize quality, long-term planning, and disciplined execution.
Make an Impact
As our Controller, you will lead the accounting function at our corporate headquarters in La Jolla, overseeing financial reporting, internal controls, and portfolio-level performance. This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for ensuring accuracy, driving efficiency, and supporting executive decision-making across the organization.
What You’ll Do
• Lead all accounting operations including A/P, A/R, general ledger, bank reconciliations, payroll oversight, and cash management
• Prepare monthly and annual financial statements for corporate and property-level entities, including consolidated reporting
• Establish and maintain strong internal controls across all entities
• Oversee property accounting teams and/or third-party accounting providers
• Manage and optimize accounting systems, including Yardi
• Monitor portfolio performance, cash flow, and capital activity across assets
• Support acquisitions and dispositions, including onboarding new properties and reviewing closing statements
• Maintain entity structures including LLCs, partnerships, and debt structures
• Develop and manage cash flow forecasting and reporting
• Coordinate with lenders and ensure compliance with reporting requirements
• Partner with external tax advisors on all federal, state, and local filings
• Lead, develop, and mentor accounting staff while building a strong, accountable team
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability
Who Excels in This Role
• 4-year degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA preferred
• 7–10+ years of accounting experience, preferably in real estate or multi-entity environments
• Strong understanding of property accounting and financial reporting
• Experience with Yardi or similar property management/accounting systems preferred
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong overall technical skills
• Exceptional organizational skills with strong attention to detail
• Proven leadership ability and experience managing accounting teams
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally with operations and leadership
Why You’ll Love Working at GIT
• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunity
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Optional life, accident, and critical illness insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Corporate office located in La Jolla, CA with convenient access to dining, shopping, and coastal amenities
• A stable, long-standing company culture built on trust, integrity, and long-term ownership
