Controller, Accounting, Accounting Manager

Overview

Controller — Denver, CO — hybrid, 4 days onsite currently (pushing towards 3-2 model).

A small, high-growth private equity–backed manufacturing company in the Denver area is seeking a hands-on Controller to lead accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls. This role is highly technical and will play a critical part in scaling the finance function, supporting operational decision-making, and preparing the company for continued growth and potential exit.

The ideal candidate brings a strong technical accounting foundation, experience in complex manufacturing environments, and exposure to M&A or integration activities within a PE-backed or similarly dynamic setting.

Compensation: $165-180K + bonus.

• Own monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring GAAP-compliant financial statements
• Oversee general ledger integrity, account reconciliations, and journal entry review/approval
• Lead preparation of internal and external reporting packages for management and private equity stakeholders
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures
• Research and apply GAAP guidance for complex transactions, including revenue recognition, inventory valuation, and capitalization policies
• Support audit processes, including external financial statement audits and tax coordination
• Ensure compliance with lender and PE reporting requirements
• Oversee standard costing, variance analysis, and cost of goods sold (COGS) reporting
• Partner with operations to analyze manufacturing performance, labor efficiency, and overhead absorption
• Improve cost accounting systems and methodologies to better support margin analysis and decision-making
• Support due diligence, acquisition accounting, and post-close integration activities
• Assist with purchase accounting entries, valuation adjustments, and opening balance sheet creation
• Help standardize accounting processes across acquired entities
• Manage and develop small accounting team (AP, AR, Senior Accountant(s))
• Partner with FP&A and operations to drive forecasting accuracy and business insights
• Support ERP optimization and financial systems improvements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Active CPA (strongly preferred or previously held)
• 7–12+ years of progressive accounting experience
• Strong technical accounting background with demonstrated GAAP expertise
• Significant experience in manufacturing or product-based environments
• Deep understanding of cost accounting, inventory accounting, and variance analysis
• Experience working in fast-paced, private equity-backed, or similarly dynamic environments

• Significant experience in manufacturing or product-based environments
• Deep understanding of cost accounting, inventory accounting, and variance analysis
• Exposure to mergers & acquisitions, including purchase accounting or integration work
• Experience in ERP systems (Net Suite, SAP, Oracle, or similar)
• Prior Controller or Assistant Controller experience in a mid-market company