Controller

STRM Recruiting; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

STRM is partnering with a fast-growing distributor to hire a Controller (or Accounting Manager on a path to Controller) in the Chicago area. You will own monthly close, financial statements, and profitability analysis, while guiding a modern, tech-driven finance function.

Direct exposure to ownership and a clear path to Controller/CFO leadership await the right candidate. Ideal candidates have a strong accounting background, ERP experience (Dynamics 365 BC or NAV), and a track record in

Qualifications

• Strong accounting background with an eye for clean, controlled financials.
• Experience in distribution, manufacturing, or similar environments preferred.
• ERP experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central or Dynamics NAV a plus.
• Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills expected.
• Leadership or team management experience preferred; willing to grow into increased responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Own monthly close, reporting, and accuracy.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements and margins.
• Improve visibility into profitability and cost drivers.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Oversee AP, AR, and billing functions; manage sales commission issues.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Quantitative Orientation

Process Improvement

Communication Skills

Problem Solving

Technology Forward

CPA Preferred

ERP Experience

Tools

Dynamics 365 BC

Dynamics NAV

Excel

Job description

STRM is partnering with a fast-growing industrial and janitorial supply distributor

based in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Our client is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and forward-thinking Controller (or Accounting Manager with a path to Controller) to join our team.

This is a key leadership role with direct exposure to ownership and a unique opportunity to help build a modern, technology-driven finance function.

Job Description:

• Own monthly financial close, reporting, and accuracy
• Prepare and analyze financial statements
• Improve visibility into margins, profitability, and cost drivers
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
• Oversee accounting, AP, AR, and billing functions
• Handle commission questions, disputes, and sales-related financial issues
• Work directly with a large, dynamic sales team (~130 reps)
• Improve internal processes, controls, and accountability
• Optimize and manage ERP system (Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central)
• Lead implementation of automation and AI tools across finance
• Support cloud-based workflow transitions and system improvements
• Assist with special financial and operational projects as needed

You must possess the following skills:

• Attention to Detail – You take pride in clean, accurate financials and strong controls
• Quantitative Orientation – You can interpret financial data, identify trends, and drive decisions
• Process Improvement Mindset – You look for ways to make systems faster, cleaner, and more scalable
• Natural Communicator – You can work effectively with both accounting staff and sales teams
• Problem Solver – You are comfortable handling ambiguity, disputes, and edge cases
• Technology Forward – You are curious and comfortable using modern tools, including AI
• Strong accounting background (CPA preferred but not required)
• Experience in distribution, manufacturing, or similar environment preferred
• ERP experience required (Business Central or Dynamics NAV a plus)
• Strong Excel and financial modeling skills
• Prior leadership or team management experience preferred
• Candidates must be willing to learn the business deeply and grow into increased responsibility

Growth Opportunity (Accounting Manager Track):

We are open to hiring a high-potential Accounting Manager who is motivated to grow into a Controller role within 3-5 years.

This role offers hands-on exposure to all aspects of the finance function and direct mentorship from ownership.

What We Offer:

• Clear path to Controller / CFO-level leadership
• Direct access to ownership and decision-making
• Opportunity to modernize and shape the finance function
• Fast-paced, entrepreneurial work environment
• Professional growth tied to company expansion

What Success Looks Like (First 12 Months):

• Faster, cleaner monthly financial reporting
• Improved commission clarity and fewer sales disputes
• Better visibility into product and customer profitability
• Implementation of 2-3 meaningful automation or efficiency improvements
• Stronger structure across accounting, AP, and AR teams