Controller, Accounting, Accounting Manager

Description

This search is being conducted by Steve Spinello.

Controller

Location:

Greater Chattanooga area

Compensation:
Competitive base + bonus + strong work-life balance

Our client, a well-established manufacturing organization, is seeking a Controller to lead day-to-day accounting operations and provide financial insight that supports key business decisions. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for an experienced accounting professional who enjoys balancing technical accounting oversight with operational finance support.

Reporting into senior leadership, the Controller will oversee a small accounting team and play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy of financial reporting, managing costing and inventory processes, and delivering analysis that helps drive business performance. This organization offers a collaborative, team-oriented culture with a strong emphasis on work-life balance, making it an attractive opportunity for someone seeking both stability and visibility.

Key Responsibilities

+ Lead all accounting operations, including month-end close, general ledger activity, and financial reporting

+ Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of 3 accounting professionals

+ Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements

+ Oversee cost accounting processes, including standard costing, job costing, and product costing

+ Manage inventory analysis, reconciliations, and controls surrounding physical inventory

+ Perform and explain variance analysis across materials, labor, and overhead to support operational decision-making

+ Partner closely with operations leadership to improve financial visibility and enhance performance

+ Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and accounting best practices

+ Identify and implement opportunities to improve processes, systems, and reporting efficiency

What Sets This Role Apart

+ Excellent work-life balance compared to many manufacturing environments

+ Stable, team-oriented culture with strong leadership support

+ High visibility role with the ability to influence decision-making

+ Opportunity to oversee both core accounting and operational finance activities

Ideal Background

+ Current Controller or a strong Accounting Manager ready for the next step

+ Comfortable working in a mid-sized manufacturing environment

+ Analytical and detail-oriented, with the ability to communicate effectively across operations and leadership

+ Proven track record of leading teams and improving accounting processes

If you're interested in learning more about this opportunity, please apply today.

Based on general knowledge.

Requirements

Qualifications

+ Bachelor's degree in Accounting required

+ 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including strong experience in manufacturing

+ Demonstrated cost accounting and inventory experience required

+ Prior people management experience with direct supervisory responsibility

+ Strong understanding of financial statements and month-end close

+ Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, lookups, and data analysis

+ ERP experience required; experience with a manufacturing ERP is a plus

Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app ()  and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit  for more information.

© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use ()  and Privacy Notice () .