Sr. Controller or Finance Manager

Location: Ayer, MA | Position Type: Contract-to-Hire

About the Role

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Controller or Finance Manager to join a lean, tenured finance team within a multi-entity beverage manufacturing operation. This is a general-ledger-first role with full ownership of at least one entity's accounting function and finance-manager-level oversight across the remaining entities. The ideal candidate is self-sufficient, comfortable running the day-to-day on-site while reporting to remote senior leadership, and brings genuine depth in general ledger accounting within a manufacturing environment. This is not an FP&A role — we need someone who knows debits and credits cold and is ready to be in the weeds from day one.

Responsibilities

• Own the full accounting function for at least one entity end-to-end, including journal entries, reconciliations, and period close
• Support a 13-period close process across multiple entities
• Manage complex intercompany and related-party transactions with accuracy and consistency
• Ensure proper allocations and general ledger integrity across the full chart of accounts
• Provide finance-manager-level oversight of day-to-day accounting activity across remaining entities
• Coordinate with on-site controllers to maintain alignment and consistency across the organization
• Support one anticipated additional hire as the team continues to scale
• Pull and analyze data in a query and pivot-table environment to support financial reporting
• Assist with variance analysis, forecasting, budgeting, and financial planning on a secondary basis
• Surface issues and recommendations to the CFO and senior leadership proactively

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience at the senior controller or finance manager level
• Manufacturing industry background — non-negotiable
• Strong general ledger accounting fundamentals: journal entries, reconciliations, period close ownership
• Experience with multi-entity accounting and intercompany/related-party transactions
• Advanced Excel skills and comfort working in a query/pivot-table environment
• Self-directed and able to operate effectively with remote senior leadership
• Must be available on-site in Ayer, MA five days per week

Preferred Qualifications

• Food & beverage, CPG, or cooperative manufacturing experience
• Exposure to standard costing and inventory accounting
• Familiarity with Infor System21 or comparable legacy manufacturing ERP
• Experience with SAP Ariba

Not a Fit

• Career FP&A professionals or financial analysts without demonstrated general ledger depth
• Director or CFO-level candidates seeking a strategic-only role

Pay

$85 - $100 per hour

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(K) retirement plan