Financial Controller

Hernshead Group; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace and defense company is seeking a Controller in Columbus, MS to oversee financial operations. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of accounting and finance experience in the aerospace or defense sectors and an MBA. Responsibilities include budgeting, reporting, regulatory compliance, and leadership of the finance team. This full-time role offers a competitive salary, engaging in critical financial strategy and compliance management.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in accounting and finance within aerospace, defense, or a closely related manufacturing sector.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and financial reporting standards relevant to defense contracting.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing and developing finance teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, accounting, reporting, and audit activity across the organization.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements in accordance with GAAP and relevant aerospace and defense regulations.
• Lead month-end and year-end close processes and ensure timely, accurate financial reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Compliance knowledge

Education

MBA or related postgraduate qualification

Tools

SAP or similar ERP systems

Job description

Head Hunting Advanced Engineering Design Talent – Aerospace, Space, Defence & Mobility (US Market)

Ready to lead the financial operations of a fast‑growing aerospace and defence innovator?

Base Pay Range: $120,000.00/yr – $150,000.00/yr

Location: Columbus, MS

About this Position

As Controller, you will oversee all financial activity, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strategic alignment across the business. Operating at the intersection of accounting, operational finance, and regulatory governance, you will play a critical role in shaping financial strategy and supporting the company’s path to continued growth.

Working closely with senior leadership and cross‑functional teams, you will manage reporting, budgeting, audits, and government‑contract compliance, while leading a high‑performing finance team and ensuring the organisation maintains robust financial controls and transparency.

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, accounting, reporting, and audit activity across the organisation.
• Prepare and analyse financial statements in accordance with GAAP and relevant aerospace and defence regulations.
• Lead month‑end and year‑end close processes and ensure timely, accurate financial reporting.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and ensure adherence to strong internal controls.
• Develop financial strategies and policies that support organisational goals and long‑term growth.
• Manage cash flow, working capital, and financial risk, ensuring efficient use of company resources.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop the finance team to ensure consistent high performance.
• Partner with operations, engineering, procurement, and other functions to align financial goals with business objectives.
• Provide clear financial insights and recommendations to senior leadership, including the preparation of board‑level presentations.
• Monitor and enforce compliance with government‑contract requirements including FARS, DFARS, CAS, and other defence‑sector standards.
• Maintain and improve accounting systems; experience with SAP or similar ERP platforms is highly valued.

Experience Required

• MBA or related postgraduate qualification preferred.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in accounting and finance within aerospace, defence, or a closely related manufacturing sector.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and financial reporting standards relevant to defence contracting.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing and developing finance teams.
• Proficiency with SAP or similar ERP systems is highly preferred.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with senior leadership.
• Experience with government contracting compliance, including FARS, DFARS, and CAS.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Finance and Accounting / Auditing

Industries

Defense and Space Manufacturing