Controller

Oakbridge Search Partners; Wallaceburg; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Oakbridge Search Partners partners with a manufacturing company to fill a hands-on Controller role overseeing accounting and financial reporting. The incumbent serves as a key business partner to operations and executive leadership to drive profitability, efficiency, and sustainable growth.

The successful candidate will manage standard costing, inventory accounting, budgeting, forecasting, internal controls, cash flow, and performance analysis within a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance.
• CPA designation required.

Responsibilities

• Lead accounting and financial reporting activities.
• Manage month-end close and internal controls.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Analytical skills

Leadership

Excel proficiency

Manufacturing ops

Education

Bachelor's degree

CPA designation

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Position Overview:

Our client, an established manufacturing company, is seeking a results-oriented and hands-on Controller to lead the company’s accounting and financial reporting functions while serving as a key business partner to operations and executive leadership. The Controller will be responsible for financial stewardship, cost accounting, budgeting and forecasting, internal controls, cash flow management, and performance analysis within a manufacturing environment.

This role requires a strong understanding of standard costing, inventory management, manufacturing operations, and financial planning. The successful candidate will provide timely and accurate financial information that supports strategic decision-making and drives profitability, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Leadership & Reporting

• Lead all accounting and financial reporting activities, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes and establish best practices to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide meaningful financial analysis and reporting to senior leadership, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities.

Cost Accounting & Manufacturing Finance

• Analyze manufacturing variances, labor efficiencies, material usage, inventory levels, and production performance.
• Partner with operations leadership to identify cost reduction opportunities and improve plant profitability.
• Monitor inventory valuation processes and ensure accurate accounting for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Business Planning

• Lead the annual budgeting process and periodic forecasting activities.
• Monitor financial performance against budget and provide actionable recommendations.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Maintain and strengthen internal control systems to safeguard company assets and minimize financial risk.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, government requirements, and company policies.
• Coordinate annual external audits and support regulatory reporting requirements.
• Oversee corporate insurance, risk management, and financial compliance activities.

Cash Flow & Working Capital Management

• Monitor cash flow, liquidity, and working capital performance.
• Oversee accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory, and cash management processes.
• Provide recommendations to optimize cash flow and improve working capital efficiency.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Establish departmental objectives and performance metrics.
• Promote collaboration between finance and operational departments.

Tax Management & Compliance

• Oversee all corporate tax compliance activities, including preparation, review, and coordination of corporate income tax filings with external tax advisors.
• Ensure timely and accurate filing of indirect taxes, including HST/GST, payroll taxes, and other statutory remittances.
• Manage tax audits and government inquiries with external advisors and regulatory authorities.
• Monitor changes in tax legislation and assess the financial and operational impact on the organization.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related discipline.
• CPA designation required.

Experience

• 5–10 years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including leadership responsibility.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment with standard costing, inventory accounting, and financial analysis would be an asset.
• Budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes experience.
• Experience working with ERP systems, preferably in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience managing corporate income tax, indirect tax (HST/GST), payroll tax compliance, and annual tax reporting requirements.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong business acumen and understanding of manufacturing operations.
• Advanced Excel and financial systems proficiency.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proven leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational excellence.
• Strong understanding of Canadian corporate taxation, HST/GST regulations, payroll taxes, and financial statement tax provisions.
• Knowledge of U.S. sales tax, U.S. corporate tax, customs duties, or cross-border taxation would be considered an asset.

Salary: $85,000 – $105,000 CAD per year