CONTROLLER
Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Reports To: VP of Finance
Reports To: VP of Finance
Position Summary
The Controller serves as the leader of the accounting function and key business partner to the VP of Finance. The Controller is responsible for the integrity of financial reporting and accounting operations, while partnering with the VP of Finance by providing accounting support, financial analysis, and reporting for budgeting, forecasting, cash management, and business performance initiatives.
The ideal candidate possesses strong technical accounting expertise, leadership skills, manufacturing and inventory accounting experience, and a passion for continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & Close Management
- Lead and manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process.
- Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
- Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules.
- Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and chart of accounts.
- Analyze financial results, investigate variances, and provide accounting-based explanations of operating results
Accounting Operations
- Oversee all accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, and general ledger activities.
- Develop and maintain documented accounting procedures, close checklists, and reconciliation standards.
- Ensure accurate recording and classification of all financial transactions.
- Maintain audit-ready accounting records and documentation.
- Ensure all critical accounting processes have sufficient cross-training and backup coverage.
Inventory & Cost Accounting
- Oversee inventory valuation, standard costing, landed cost accounting, and inventory reconciliation processes.
- Partner with operations and supply chain teams to ensure inventory accuracy and proper financial reporting.
- Analyze inventory performance, obsolescence, and inventory-related risks.
- Support physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.
Internal Controls & Compliance
- Design, implement, and monitor internal controls over financial reporting and operational processes.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Identify control gaps and implement corrective actions.
- Support risk management initiatives and safeguard company assets.
Audit & Tax Coordination
- Lead annual financial statement audits and coordinate activities with external auditors.
- Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation.
- Manage sales and use tax compliance and support income tax reporting requirements.
- Serve as the primary accounting contact for auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory agencies.
ERP Systems & Process Improvement
- Partner with the VP of Finance to support ERP optimization, process improvements, and reporting enhancements.
- Recommend and implement accounting process improvements, workflow automation, and system enhancements in coordination with the VP of Finance
- Leverage technology to improve reporting accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.
Budgeting & Financial Planning Support
- Provide financial data, analysis, and accounting support for budgeting and forecasting processes led by the VP of Finance.
- Provide monthly variance analysis and financial reporting to support budget and forecast reviews led by the VP of Finance.
- Provide accurate financial information and balance sheet analysis to support cash flow forecasting and working capital management activities.
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead, coach, and develop the accounting team.
- Establish performance expectations and accountability measures.
- Foster a culture of ownership, continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional development.
- Ensure cross-training and succession planning within the accounting function.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.
- 7+ years of progressive accounting experience.
- 3+ years of leadership or supervisory experience.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
- Experience managing month-end close processes.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
- Experience with ERP systems such as NetSuite, Oracle, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar platforms.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
Preferred
- CPA certification strongly preferred.
- Manufacturing, distribution, or inventory-intensive industry experience preferred.
- Experience with standard costing, inventory accounting, and ERP implementations.
- Experience leading external audits and process improvement initiatives.