Fractional Controller

Compensation: $80-$110/hour (exceptional candidates may be considered above range)

Employment Type: Interim / Contract

• January-March:
  Full-time commitment anticipated
• Hybrid schedule with 2-3 days onsite weekly in San Diego

Our client is a rapidly growing consumer products manufacturer seeking an experienced Interim Controller to provide accounting leadership and operational support during a critical transition period. This is a hands‑on role designed for someone who enjoys building structure, supporting teams, and ensuring accurate financial reporting in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate is a strong accountant first and foremost, with deep manufacturing accounting expertise, a collaborative leadership style, and the ability to step into an evolving environment without ego. This is not a "big-picture only" executive role. Success will come from being highly detail‑oriented, flexible, and willing to dive into the day‑to‑day work alongside the team.

• Oversee month-end close processes for two related operating entities
• Ensure accurate financial reporting and maintain compliance with accounting standards
• Support and mentor the accounting team while providing guidance and structure where needed
• Review reconciliations, journal entries, and balance sheet accounts to ensure accuracy
• Maintain continuity and stability through an ongoing organizational transition
• Strengthen and refine accounting processes, controls, and workflows
• Partner with leadership to ensure smooth financial operations and reporting
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and operational finance initiatives as needed
• Serve as a trusted resource for accounting questions and issue resolution
• Support manufacturing and inventory accounting including cost accounting, inventory controls, and operational reporting

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 8+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience
• Prior experience as a Controller, Assistant Controller, or Senior Accounting Leader within manufacturing environments
• Strong understanding of manufacturing accounting, inventory accounting, and cost accounting
• Experience working with consumer products (CPG) companies strongly preferred
• Proven ability to manage month-end close and financial reporting processes
• Hands-on approach with strong attention to detail
• Comfortable working in a growing, entrepreneurial environment
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to adapt quickly and provide practical solutions

The successful candidate will be:

• Collaborative, approachable, and low-ego
• Comfortable coaching and supporting developing team members
• Organized, diligent, and process-oriented
• Willing to be hands‑on rather than delegating everything downward
• Flexible and adaptable in a growing organization
• Local to Southern California or willing to travel to the San Diego office 2-3 days per week
• Immediate need with interviews taking place this month
• Engagement expected to begin as soon as October
• Potential for expanded hours and full-time commitment through at least Q1

This opportunity is ideal for a strong manufacturing accounting professional who enjoys stepping into growing businesses, creating stability, and helping teams succeed through periods of transition and growth.