Controller

Overview

Our client, an established manufacturer specializing in custom tooling and production operations, is seeking a hands-on Controller to lead its accounting function. This position combines financial reporting, project cost tracking, and day-to-day accounting with direct involvement in manufacturing operations. Working closely with ownership and supervising a small accounting team, the Controller will play an important role in supporting financial performance and operational decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage month-end, quarterly, and year-end accounting activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
• Maintain the general ledger and prepare accurate balance sheets and profit and loss reports.
• Oversee accounts receivable, customer invoicing, collections, cash flow, and banking relationships.
• Track work-in-process (WIP), accumulated tooling costs, and job profitability throughout the manufacturing process, including financial reporting at key project milestones.
• Partner with manufacturing and engineering teams to understand project costs and operational financial performance.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and business planning with company leadership.
• Coordinate year-end accounting, tax matters, fixed asset records, and depreciation schedules with external CPA partners.
• Maintain accounting controls and identify opportunities to improve reporting and financial processes.
• Supervise the Assistant Controller responsible for accounts payable, payroll coordination, and HR administration.
• Coordinate business insurance coverage, including property, casualty, workers' compensation, and business interruption policies.
• Lead quarterly safety committee meetings and remain involved in plant-level activities.
• Use Microsoft Dynamics to manage accounting information and financial reporting.

• 10+ years of manufacturing accounting experience required, including hands-on general ledger, month-end close, and financial statement preparation.
• Previous supervisory/leadership experience required, with responsibility for at least one direct report.
• Strong understanding of balance sheet reconciliations, accounts receivable, cash management, and manufacturing-related costs.
• Ability to work directly with operations while managing detailed accounting responsibilities and supporting leadership decisions.
• Strong Excel skills and a practical, collaborative approach suited to a smaller manufacturing organization.

• Automotive manufacturing experience 
• Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics accounting software.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Experience with commercial banking relationships.

• Controller
• Manufacturing Controller
• Plant Controller
• Assistant Controller
• Accounting Manager