Controller

Christian Theological Seminary; Pacific (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional educational institution is seeking a Controller to oversee accounting operations and ensure financial compliance. The successful candidate will lead the accounting team, manage financial reporting, and enhance processes according to U.S. GAAP. Ideal applicants should possess a Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, along with substantial experience in accounting, specifically in manufacturing. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are crucial for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 7–10+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• 3–5 years of proven leadership experience within accounting or finance.
• Manufacturing or industrial accounting experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions including general ledger and payroll accounting.
• Prepare, review, and analyze financial statements and management reports.
• Develop and maintain internal control processes and procedures.

Skills

Knowledge of U.S. GAAP

Advanced cost accounting

Financial analysis

Strong leadership skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance

CPA or CMA

Tools

Epicor

SAP

Oracle

Job description

Job Title: Controller

Department: Accounting

Reports to: CFO

Location: Pacific, MO (Corporate Headquarters)

Position Summary

The Controller is responsible for directing and overseeing all accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance activities for Walker Products. This role ensures the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial information while supporting executive leadership through meaningful financial analysis and reporting.

The Controller works closely with the Chief Financial Officer and senior leadership to support the financial strength of the organization, enhance accounting processes, and ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP, regulatory standards, and company policies. This role requires strong leadership capability, a solid manufacturing accounting background, and hands‑on experience with cost accounting and ERP systems. Experience using Epicor Kinetic is highly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations

• Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, and fixed assets
• Direct the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes to ensure accuracy and timeliness
• Prepare, review, and analyze financial statements, management reports, and variance analyses
• Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP, internal accounting policies, and financial reporting standards
• Maintain accurate financial records, schedules, and supporting documentation

Cost Accounting & Manufacturing Finance

• Oversee standard costing processes, inventory valuation, and cost of goods sold analysis
• Review bills of material (BOMs), routings, and labor and machine cost allocations for accuracy

• Monitor manufacturing variances and collaborate with operations leadership to identify cost drivers and improvement opportunities
• Support margin and profitability analysis by product line, customer, and business unit

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Develop, document, and maintain strong internal control processes and procedures
• Ensure compliance with tax regulations, audits, and corporate reporting requirements
• Coordinate and manage external audits, including financial statement audits and tax engagements
• Establish, update, and enforce accounting policies and procedures to safeguard company assets and mitigate financial risk

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Assist executive leadership with the development of annual operating budgets and financial forecasts
• Provide financial analysis and reporting to support operational and strategic decision‑making
• Monitor company performance against budget and forecast expectations
• Identify financial trends, risks, and opportunities and communicate findings to leadership

ERP & Financial Systems Leadership

• Maintain and oversee financial functionality within the company's ERP system (Epicor Kinetic preferred)
• Partner with IT, ERP, and business stakeholders to improve financial reporting, system controls, and automation
• Support ERP implementations, upgrades, and enhancements related to accounting and finance processes

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team to ensure consistent performance and professional growth
• Establish departmental goals, performance metrics, and accountability standards
• Promote cross‑department collaboration with operations, supply chain, IT, and executive leadership

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance required
• CPA or CMA strongly preferred

Experience

• 7–10+ years of progressive accounting experience
• 3–5 years of proven leadership experience within accounting or finance
• Manufacturing or industrial accounting experience strongly preferred
• Experience with ERP systems such as Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting standards
• Advanced cost accounting and inventory accounting expertise
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial analysis
• Experience working within ERP financial modules
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable business insights

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed in an office environment with periodic interaction within manufacturing and warehouse operations. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

NOTE

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice, based on business needs.