Controller

Movement Search & Delivery; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company is seeking a Controller for Manufacturing Operations in Chicago. This role involves preparing financial statements, overseeing accounting processes, and managing an accounting team. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree, CPA/CMA preferred, with 7+ years in accounting, particularly in manufacturing. Strong GAAP knowledge and ERP proficiency are essential. This full-time position offers an opportunity to influence financial processes in a stable environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including manufacturing/plant-level exposure.
• Minimum of 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, tax regulations, and cost accounting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare timely and accurate financial statements.
• Oversee the general ledger for accuracy and integrity.
• Lead month-end and year-end close processes.

Skills

Leadership

Cost Accounting

Financial Analysis

ERP Systems (SAP, Oracle)

GAAP Knowledge

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

CPA/CMA preferred

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP Systems

Job description

Controller – Manufacturing Operations

About the Company A leading manufacturer of high-quality, reusable, and sustainable products is seeking a Controller – Manufacturing Operations ($500M P&L) to join its leadership team. With decades of growth and a reputation for innovation, this company continues to drive operational excellence by combining advanced technology, a strong customer base, and a people‑focused culture. This is a chance to step into a visible role within a stable, family‑oriented business that values both tradition and forward‑thinking solutions.

Why This Opportunity?

• Work for a well‑established manufacturer with a strong history of success.
• Collaborate closely with operations and executive leadership to drive business performance.
• Lead a small, high‑impact accounting team and make a direct impact on company results.
• Enjoy the stability of a long‑standing organization while influencing modern financial processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare timely and accurate financial statements (balance sheet, income statement, cash flow).
• Oversee the general ledger, ensuring reconciliations, accuracy, and integrity.
• Lead month‑end and year‑end close processes while meeting reporting deadlines.
• Manage cost accounting systems to track, analyze, and report manufacturing costs.
• Conduct variance analysis to support forecasting, budgeting, and decision‑making.
• Partner with operations to ensure accurate cost allocation and financial insight.

Fixed Assets & Compliance

• Maintain the fixed asset register, including acquisitions, disposals, and depreciation.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and company policies.
• Oversee federal, state, and local tax compliance in collaboration with external advisors.

Audit & Internal Controls

• Coordinate external audits and maintain audit‑ready documentation.
• Strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and prevent discrepancies.
• Implement recommendations to enhance financial processes and reporting.

Leadership & Process Improvement

• Supervise and mentor a small accounting team.
• Drive standardization and efficiency across accounting processes.
• Champion ERP system utilization for streamlined financial operations.

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Provide internal financial reports and ad‑hoc analysis for executive leadership.
• Deliver insights on expense trends, cash flow, and operational performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA/CMA preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including manufacturing/plant‑level exposure.
• Minimum of 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, tax regulations, and cost accounting.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) and advanced Excel.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Proven leadership ability with strong communication and team development skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with ERP integration and process automation.
• Familiarity with internal audit processes and compliance.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational efficiency and accuracy.

Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type Full‑time

Job Function Accounting/Auditing and Finance

Industries Manufacturing