Controller

About the role

We are seeking a talented and driven Controller to oversee all accounting and financial reporting functions across both plant and corporate operations in a growing food-packaging manufacturing organization. This high-impact leadership role partners closely with executive and operational leadership to drive operational efficiency, support decision-making, and improve profitability. The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in cost accounting, inventory management, and financial reporting, along with a proven ability to influence key business decisions and lead continuous-improvement initiatives across multiple locations.

Responsibilities

• Lead all accounting and financial reporting for multi-site manufacturing operations.
• Direct and manage the month-end and year-end close processes to ensure timely and accurate reporting.
• Prepare financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Oversee general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and fixed assets.
• Coordinate external audits and support compliance efforts.
• Strengthen and maintain internal controls across all operations.
• Oversee inventory accounting, including raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
• Manage standard costing and monthly plant variance analysis.
• Analyze production costs, labor, and overhead to identify efficiencies.
• Partner with operations to improve cost control and reduce waste.
• Lead the annual budgeting process and ongoing forecasting cycles.
• Manage cash flow planning and financial projections.
• Monitor financial performance and provide variance analysis.
• Partner with executive and plant leadership to improve operational efficiency and profitability.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Support margin improvement initiatives and strategic decision-making.
• Manage ERP systems and reporting functionality.
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Support ERP upgrades or system implementations.
• Oversee payroll processing and 401k plan administration.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Mentor and develop accounting and finance staff.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA and/or Master’s degree preferred but not required.

Experience

• Minimum of 5+ years of accounting or finance experience.
• Experience in manufacturing.
• Prior people leadership experience.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of cost accounting and inventory management.
• Advanced Excel skills required; advanced Microsoft Office skills.
• Experience with ERP systems; Microsoft Dynamics Business Central strongly preferred.
• Financial modeling and data analysis capabilities.

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.