Controller, Accounting, Financial Compliance

Our client is a well-established, privately owned mid-sized manufacturing company headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. The organization is known for its commitment to quality, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction while fostering a collaborative, team-oriented culture. The company is seeking an experienced Controller to lead its accounting and financial operations and serve as a strategic business partner to executive leadership.

The Controller will oversee all accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, treasury, and internal control functions for the organization. Reporting directly to the President and/or CFO, this position will provide financial leadership and strategic insight to support continued growth and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate will have a strong manufacturing accounting background with expertise in cost accounting, inventory management, financial planning, and team leadership.

• Lead all day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Prepare monthly financial statements, management reports, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP and company accounting policies.
• Present financial results and recommendations to executive leadership.

• Oversee standard costing, inventory valuation, and manufacturing variance analysis.
• Partner with operations leadership to analyze production costs, labor efficiencies, material utilization, and plant performance.
• Maintain robust inventory controls and oversee physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.
• Drive continuous improvements in cost accounting processes and reporting.

• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Prepare cash flow forecasts and monitor working capital performance.
• Analyze business trends and develop actionable recommendations to improve profitability and efficiency.
• Support strategic planning initiatives and capital investment decisions.

• Develop and maintain strong internal controls and financial processes.
• Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, bankers, insurance providers, and tax advisors.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local reporting requirements.
• Evaluate and strengthen accounting systems and procedures to support company growth.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff.
• Establish performance expectations, provide coaching, and support employee development.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the finance team.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience.
• 3+ years of accounting leadership or management experience.
• Manufacturing industry experience required.
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting, inventory accounting, and financial reporting.
• Experience with ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Excellent leadership, analytical, and communication abilities.
• Ability to partner effectively with operations and executive leadership.

• Experience in a mid-sized manufacturing environment.
• Background leading ERP implementations, upgrades, or process improvement initiatives.
• Experience supporting multi-site operations is a plus.
• MBA or CMA certification preferred but not required.
• Competitive base salary: $130,000 - $170,000+ depending on experience
• Performance-based bonus opportunity
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Professional development and continuing education assistance
• Opportunity to play a key leadership role within a growing organization

This is a highly visible leadership opportunity for an experienced accounting professional who enjoys partnering with operations, influencing business decisions, and helping drive the success of a manufacturing organization. The Controller will have direct impact on the company's financial performance and strategic direction while leading a talented accounting team.