Controller

Atlas Search; New Jersey; On-site; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A private equity-backed distribution company in New Jersey is seeking a hands-on Controller to join its leadership team. This high-impact role involves overseeing all accounting operations across multiple entities and reporting directly to the CFO. Ideal candidates should have 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in a private equity setting, and experience managing teams. Responsibilities include leading accounting functions, preparing GAAP-compliant financial statements, and supporting audit processes.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• Experience in private equity–backed companies is preferred.
• Proven track record of managing teams and improving scalable processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead all accounting functions including GL, AP/AR, payroll, and inventory.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
• Prepare GAAP-compliant financial statements and management reporting.

Skills

Accounting functions leadership

Team management

Process improvement

GAAP compliance

Inventory accounting

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Private Equity–Backed Distribution Company

I’m partnered with a fast-growing, private equity–backed distribution company in New Jersey seeking a hands‑on Controller to join its leadership team. The company is scaling rapidly and investing in operational and financial infrastructure.

This role reports directly to the CFO and will oversee all accounting operations across multiple entities.

Responsibilities

• Lead all accounting functions (GL, AP/AR, payroll, fixed assets, inventory, cost accounting, revenue recognition)
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
• Prepare GAAP‑compliant financial statements and management reporting
• Manage inventory accounting, standard costing, and margin analysis
• Support lender reporting and private equity ownership reporting requirements
• Strengthen internal controls and operational accounting processes
• Coordinate annual audit and serve as primary liaison to external auditors
• Oversee tax compliance with outside advisors
• Support acquisition integration and accounting standardization efforts
• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience
• Private equity–backed company experience preferred
• Experience managing teams and improving scalable processes
• ERP system experience; implementation or upgrade exposure a plus

This is a high‑impact leadership role within a growing, PE‑backed manufacturing platform with strong visibility to ownership.