Controller

Robert Half is currently recruiting for a Controller to lead accounting operations for a manufacturing organization. Reporting to the CFO, this position combines team leadership with hands-on responsibility for financial reporting, manufacturing costs, budgeting, and forecasting.

Our client is seeking someone who takes ownership, investigates discrepancies, and understands the transactions behind the financial statements. The Controller will work closely with the CFO and operational leaders to improve reporting accuracy, strengthen controls, and provide useful financial analysis for business decisions.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily accounting activities across general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, and fixed assets.
• Direct the monthly close and preparation of consolidated financial statements.
• Manage standard costing and inventory accounting across multiple locations; investigate inventory transactions and manufacturing variances.
• Review balance sheet reconciliations, supporting documentation, and staff work to identify and resolve errors.
• Develop annual budgets and ongoing forecasts with the CFO.
• Analyze financial performance, monitor accounting KPIs, and communicate findings to management.
• Oversee bank reporting, commercial insurance administration, and external audit coordination.
• Maintain existing SOX controls and accounting policies while identifying opportunities to improve processes.
• Manage and develop the accounting team, establishing clear expectations for accuracy and deadlines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.
• Five to ten years of accounting experience with a manufacturing background.
• Hands-on plant or business controllership experience, including standard costing, inventory accounting, and variance analysis.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and account reconciliations.
• Strong staff management, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced Excel skills; manufacturing ERP experience is a plus.
• Ability to work independently, investigate issues thoroughly, and follow through on corrective actions.
• CPA, master’s degree, public accounting experience, and prior SOX or public company experience are preferred but not required.