Assistant Controller

CFS; Saint Paul (MN); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

CFS, a well-established global manufacturing organization, seeks an Assistant Controller to lead the accounting and finance function. You will oversee general ledger, month-end close, payroll oversight, and financial reporting while guiding staff and partnering with senior leadership.

The role requires strong GAAP knowledge, public accounting audit experience, and a track record of process improvement in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• 3+ years of supervisory or people leadership experience.
• Experience coordinating and supporting external audits.
• Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and evolving accounting standards.
• Experience working within ERP systems; Oracle experience is a plus.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the general ledger and compliance with U.S. GAAP.
• Prepare and review internal financial statements and management reports.
• Support timely monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
• Research and evaluate complex accounting matters and emerging standards.
• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting team members.
• Promote continuous improvement of accounting processes and reporting.

Skills

Leadership

GAAP knowledge

Audit coordination

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Time management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

CPA or MBA preferred

Tools

Excel

Oracle ERP

Job description

Location

Roseville, MN

Employment Type

Full-Time, Hybrid Work Model (3 days on-site per week)

Compensation

$130,000 - $160,000/year

About The Opportunity

A well-established global manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Assistant Controller to join its Accounting and Finance team. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing general ledger accounting, month-end close activities, technical accounting matters, accounts payable, payroll oversight, financial reporting, and audit coordination. The ideal candidate will bring strong GAAP expertise, leadership experience, and a passion for continuous process improvement.

Position Summary

The Assistant Controller plays a critical role in maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the organization's financial reporting and accounting operations. This individual will manage key accounting functions, support internal controls, coordinate external audits, and develop accounting staff while partnering closely with senior finance leadership to ensure compliance and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the general ledger and compliance with U.S. GAAP.
• Prepare and review internal financial statements and management reports.
• Support timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
• Research and evaluate complex accounting matters and emerging accounting standards.
• Partner with finance leadership to ensure regulatory and reporting requirements are met.

Internal Controls & Financial Governance

• Assist in developing and maintaining strong financial control policies and procedures.
• Support initiatives that safeguard company assets and strengthen the control environment.
• Ensure accounting processes and team activities align with established compliance standards.
• Help drive accountability and consistency across accounting operations.

Audit Coordination

• Serve as a primary point of contact for external financial statement and benefit plan audits.
• Coordinate audit requests and ensure timely delivery of supporting documentation.
• Prepare schedules, analyses, and reports needed to support audit activities.
• Assist with the preparation of annual audited financial statements.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting team members.
• Participate in recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training activities.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.
• Establish development plans and support employee growth and career progression.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the accounting function.
• Evaluate accounting processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Develop and monitor departmental performance metrics.
• Document procedures and ensure consistency in accounting operations and reporting.

Accounting Operations Oversight

• Oversee Accounts Payable processes, including invoice processing and sales tax compliance.
• Support payroll processing activities and ensure accuracy of related accounting transactions.
• Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and balance sheet analyses.
• Continuously assess operational workflows and implement process enhancements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address accounting questions and business needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting required.
• CPA and/or MBA preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• 3+ years of experience in public accounting audit strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or people leadership experience.
• Experience coordinating and supporting external audits.
• Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and evolving accounting standards.
• Experience working within ERP systems; Oracle experience is a plus.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required.

Desired Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong project management experience with a demonstrated ability to execute initiatives successfully.
• Effective communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Strong business acumen and customer service orientation.
• Proven ability to build collaborative relationships across departments.
• Experience documenting processes, monitoring compliance, and driving operational improvements.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Why This Opportunity?

• Key leadership role within a growing finance organization.
• Opportunity to influence financial operations, controls, and process improvements.
• Exposure to executive leadership and strategic business initiatives.
• Collaborative and team-focused culture.
• Strong opportunity for professional growth and advancement.