Controller

Hardesty, LLC; Commerce (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Hardesty, LLC, through its private equity-backed manufacturing and import operations, seeks a Controller to lead the accounting function. The role owns the month-end close, financial reporting, and internal controls, guiding a growing team while partnering with the CFO to scale financial infrastructure.

The ideal candidate will report to the CFO, drive clean audit readiness, oversee payroll (ADP), and work cross-functionally to improve inventory and import processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• CPA or other relevant accounting certification is a plus.
• Experience in manufacturing, inventory, importing, or related industries preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Accounting team (AR, AP, payroll, close support).
• Own the month-end and year-end close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Prepare monthly financial statements and management reporting for the CFO.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls, ensuring clean audit readiness.
• Manage payroll (via ADP), reconciliations, and general ledger integrity.
• Identify process gaps and implement operational improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support inventory accounting and importing operations.
• Be a hands-on problem-solver who elevates systems and team capabilities.

Skills

Excel

Leadership

Growth mindset

Problem solving

Self-motivated

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

CPA or related certification (nice to have)

Tools

NetSuite

QuickBooks

ADP Payroll

Job description

Our client a fast growing private equity owned manufacturer is looking for a Controller. The Controller, will lead the Accounting function for our rapidly growing manufacturing and import business. The Controller will own the month‑end close, financial reporting, and internal controls, managing a small but growing team and solving the “holes” that fast growth creates. He or she will work side‑by‑side with the CFO to shape the financial infrastructure and scale with the business, not just meet expectations, but add real operational value.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Accounting team (AR, AP, payroll, close support)
• Own the month‑end and year‑end close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Prepare monthly financial statements and management reporting for the CFO
• Maintain and enhance internal controls, ensuring clean audit readiness
• Manage payroll (via ADP), reconciliations, and general ledger integrity
• Help identify process gaps; proactively suggest and implement operational improvements
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support inventory accounting and importing operations
• Be a hands‑on problem‑solver who elevates systems and team capabilities

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Proficiency in Excel and ERP/accounting systems (NetSuite, QuickBooks, or similar)
• Experience with payroll systems (especially ADP)
• Strong leadership skills and a growth‑oriented, problem‑solving mindset
• Self‑motivated, flexible, and eager to contribute beyond “9–5”
• Experience identifying and closing operational/accounting gaps in fast‑growing environments

Education and Background

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• CPA or other relevant accounting certification (nice to have)
• Background in manufacturing, inventory, importing, or related industries preferred