Controller

Overview We are seeking a highly analytical and process-oriented Controller to lead the accounting function in a high-growth manufacturing environment. This role will oversee the General Ledger, financial reporting, and accounting operations , while driving systems improvements, KPI development, and AI-enabled financial automation . The ideal candidate will bring deep ERP expertise (preferably INFOR LN) , experience in heavy manufacturing , and the ability to translate raw financial and operational data into meaningful dashboards and KPIs . This individual must be comfortable operating in a hands-on, startup-like environment , helping stabilize and optimize processes following a recent ERP transition from PeopleSoft to INFOR LN . Key Responsibilities
Own full responsibility for the General Ledger , including journal entries, account reconciliations, and chart of accounts maintenance across multiple business units and entities.
Lead all month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities , ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of financial reporting.
Oversee Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions , including aging analysis, collections, vendor payments, fixed assets management, and working capital optimization.
Prepare and present monthly financial statements , variance analysis against budget, and management reports to the CFO and executive leadership team .
Support project-based accounting and cost tracking within a manufacturing environment.
Develop and implement KPI frameworks and executive dashboards to monitor operational and financial performance across the organization.
Leverage AI-powered accounting tools and automation to streamline financial close processes, detect anomalies, and support budgeting and forecasting improvements.
Partner with cross-functional teams to extract and analyze raw ERP data , transforming it into meaningful financial insights.
Lead financial systems and process improvements , particularly related to the recent ERP transition from PeopleSoft to INFOR LN .
Build and maintain advanced financial reporting and dashboarding using tools such as Power BI and AI-enabled analytics platforms .
Ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable government contract accounting standards (FAR/DFARS/CAS) where applicable.
Maintain working knowledge of federal, state, and local tax regulations , ensuring timely and accurate compliance filings. Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred).
8+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience , with significant leadership responsibility.
Prior experience as a Controller or senior accounting leader in heavy manufacturing .
Strong ERP experience required , with preference for INFOR LN ; experience with PeopleSoft is a plus.
Experience working in Defense, Aerospace, or Government contracting environments strongly preferred.
Strong expertise in General Ledger accounting, financial reporting, and close processes .
Demonstrated experience with financial systems optimization and process improvement initiatives .
Advanced skills in data analysis, financial modeling, and dashboard creation using Power BI or similar BI tools .
Experience leveraging AI-enabled tools in accounting or financial operations is highly desirable.
Ability to operate hands-on and in the weeds in a fast-moving, evolving environment.
Strong ability to translate large data sets into actionable KPIs and business insights . Ideal Candidate Profile
Background in heavy manufacturing finance leadership
Deep ERP implementation or post-implementation optimization experience
Strong data-driven mindset with BI and AI tools
Comfortable in startup or turnaround environments where processes are still being built
Ability to bridge finance, operations, and technology to improve reporting and performance management