Plant Controller: Strategy & Profitability Leader

Software Placement Group; Lake Forest (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Software Placement Group is seeking an experienced Plant Controller to lead the financial operations of a manufacturing facility in Lake Forest, IL. The role partners with operations to improve profitability, oversees budgeting, forecasting, standard costing, and inventory controls, and guides the accounting team to ensure GAAP-compliant reporting.

You will drive cost reduction initiatives, maintain strong internal controls, and provide strategic financial support for capital investments and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 7-10 years of Controller/Plant Controller experience in manufacturing
• Experience leading accounting teams and partnering with operations
• Strong knowledge of costing, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Proven ability to influence senior leadership

Responsibilities

• Lead financial operations for the plant and ensure accurate reporting
• Prepare monthly/quarterly/annual financial statements and management analyses
• Develop annual operating budget, business plan, and forecasts
• Partner with plant leadership to provide financial guidance for decisions
• Analyze costs, performance, and opportunities for profitability
• Manage standard/product costing, inventory valuation, and cost controls
• Oversee month-end/year-end close and regulatory compliance
• Lead and develop the Accounting team
• Ensure financial controls and GAAP compliance across plant operations
• Support capital investment analyses and working capital optimization
• Drive cash flow through planning and working capital management
• Conduct internal audits and maintain inventory accuracy

Skills

Financial leadership

Manufacturing accounting

Cost accounting

Forecasting and budgeting

GAAP knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication with senior leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Software Placement Group is seeking an experienced Plant Controller to lead the financial operations of a manufacturing facility in Lake Forest, IL. The role partners with operations to improve profitability, oversees budgeting, forecasting, standard costing, and inventory controls, and guides the accounting team to ensure GAAP-compliant reporting.

You will drive cost reduction initiatives, maintain strong internal controls, and provide strategic financial support for capital investments and