Division Controller

Pinnacle Search; Santa Clarita (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A global packaging solutions provider is seeking a Financial Controller to lead financial operations for a high-growth division. This role is critical for overseeing accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, and ensuring compliance with US GAAP. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of finance experience, strong leadership abilities, and a background in the packaging industry. This position offers an opportunity to significantly influence financial strategy and enhance overall business performance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive finance experience.
• Strong technical knowledge of GAAP.
• Experience in the packaging sector preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial accounting, reporting, and internal controls.
• Lead monthly and annual closing processes.
• Drive strategic financial initiatives to enhance efficiency.

Skills

Ethical standards

Financial modeling

Data analysis

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in finance/accounting

CPA or CMA

Tools

MS D365 F&O

Power BI

Job description

Our client is a global packaging solutions provider offering an end-to-end services platform, from concept and design through production, inspection, and logistics. With regional and global manufacturing & logistics across Europe, North America, and Asia, they combine local, customer-centric execution with the scale of a global organization. They specialize in premium and complex packaging solutions for leading global brands.

This is a rare opportunity for a hands-on finance leader to put their stamp on a growing platform by stepping into a highly visible role to build the financial backbone, bring structure and insight, integrate new businesses, and partner closely with leadership to define how the platform operates and scales.

The company is seeking an experienced and proactive Financial Controller to lead financial operations for a dynamic/high-growth division where there is meaningful opportunity to elevate financial rigor, influence decision-making, and help define the future operating model.

This is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of accounting, financial reporting, month-end closing, financial planning, budgeting, internal controls, and audit coordination. The ideal candidate will bring a strong mix of technical expertise, commercial and manufacturing experience, and leadership capability to support the in-house team. S/he will partner with the West Coast GM and leadership team on performance management, identifying and tracking key performance indicators, strategies to grow EBITDA, and improve cash flow conversion. This role will report directly to the West Coast CFO.

Key Position Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of financial accounting, reporting, and internal controls for the in-house printing entity, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with US GAAP and group policies.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual closing processes, collaborating closely with the local operations team and group finance.
• Partner with the leadership team to develop and execute the business and financial plan to deliver the annual budget EBITDA and Cash Flow targets.
• Lead and deliver the 13-week cash forecasting process. Leverage the forecast to optimize working capital and improve the cash conversion cycle.
• Oversee end-to-end accounting operations, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance including the order-to-cash and procure-to-pay cycles. Drive accounting automation and process standardization
• Drive strategic financial initiatives to enhance business efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Implement cost control measures and monthly tracking for the cost savings and productivity program.
• Partner with external advisors and internal stakeholders to manage group audits and tax compliance.
• Ensure proper costing methodologies, inventory valuation, and physical inventory controls.
• Monitor and optimize working capital, with a focus on accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory turnover.
• Analyze and monitor inventory levels, obsolescence, and cost trends; collaborate with operations to enhance inventory efficiency and accuracy.
• Implement and enforce internal controls, ensuring proper segregation of duties, risk mitigation, authorization and approval workflows, and vendor onboarding protocols.
• Prepare and review budgets, rolling forecasts, and variance analysis, explain deviations and propose corrective actions.
• As a key member of the finance team, contribute to building and developing a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and curiosity to make a difference on the business.

Professional & Personal Qualifications

• Must possess high ethical standards (integrity, transparency, and trust).
• Bachelors degree in finance and accounting, or a related field.
• Certification: CPA or CMA is highly preferred
• 10+ years of progressive experience in the finance function with a track record of building the business and organization. Experience in the Packaging businesses strongly preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge of GAAP.
• Excellent ERP and Excel skills, prior experience with MS D365 F&O strongly preferred.
• Experience coordinating statutory and group audits.
• Strong understanding of internal controls and compliance requirements in a global organization.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, hands-on environment with multiple stakeholders.
• Knowledge of relevant financial regulations and accounting standards. Experience with transfer pricing is a plus.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with exceptional financial modeling and data analysis capabilities (Power BI and/or other data analytics platforms).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including presenting to executive leadership.
• Leadership experience with the ability to inspire and develop a high-performing team.