Accounting Manager - CPG Specialist

Graphite Financial is a growing boutique finance, accounting, tax, and strategy firm () built to help startup and high-growth companies scale efficiently and sustainably. Graphite Financial is redefining the “finance department” for early-stage companies and VC-backed startups. We deliver high-caliber accounting and finance leadership and support to entrepreneurs and management teams building scalable, high-growth companies. Our clients are actively managing cash burn, measuring performance, reporting to investors, making capital allocation decisions, and preparing for fundraising.

All of that takes expertise and time that founders don’t have and can’t afford to hire for. Graphite bridges the gap with flexible, fixed-fee support packages that provide fractional leadership and operational support from CFOs, Controllers, FP&A Managers, and Tax leaders.

Are you a highly experienced, strategic accounting leader with deep accounting expertise in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry? Do you thrive on being the essential financial partner to high-growth companies? We are looking for a Client Lead to serve as the primary strategic and operational accounting leader for some of our most significant and demanding CPG clients. This role is a unique blend of high-level financial strategy, complex technical accounting oversight, and hands-on client relationship management.

If you are ready to drive financial excellence and business strategy for exciting CPG brands, we want to hear from you.

Strategic Client Leadership & Relationship Management

• Act as the main point of contact and trusted advisor for multiple high-profile clients, balancing competing needs and managing expectations across all service areas.
• Manage the full client lifecycle, from onboarding and process implementation through ongoing strategic service delivery.
• Develop a deep understanding of client operations and strategy to proactively identify opportunities for additional value, guiding them through pivotal moments like capital raising (debt & equity), M&A oversight, and ERP conversions.
• Proactively monitor engagement hours and budget against Statements of Work (SOWs), ensuring scope adherence and profitability.

• Revenue Recognition (ASC 606):
  Lead technical accounting and reporting for complex, multi-channel revenue streams, ensuring accurate recognition for Direct-to-Consumer (DTC), wholesale, and retail sales.
• Inventory Management:
  Oversee all aspects of inventory valuation and reconciliations across warehouses, 3PLs, and retail channels. Implement robust controls for shrink, obsolescence, and SKU-level margin analysis.
• CPG Commercial Acumen:
  Master the complexities of trade spend, slotting fees, chargebacks, and retailer program costs, ensuring accurate accounting and providing insightful reporting to optimize channel profitability.
• Monthly Close & Reporting:
  Ensure timely and accurate execution of the monthly close process and financial statement generation.
• Collaborate closely with firm leadership to maintain an up-to-date knowledge base on GAAP and evolving accounting standards.
• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of direct reports, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, timely client deliverables and fostering their professional growth.
• Step in as a subject matter expert to assist pod teams with the most complex accounting issues or high-impact projects.
• Drive firm-wide excellence by contributing to strategic initiatives, operational improvements, and the maintenance of process handbooks.
• Play a key role in recruiting, hiring, and onboarding new talent.
• Participate in technology pilots to test and implement the latest industry software and productivity tools.

• 10+ years of progressive experience in public accounting, or 15+ years of total accounting experience, including senior corporate controller or finance leadership functions.
• Previous experience in a senior leadership role such as CFO, Director of Accounting, Corporate Controller, or VP Finance.
• Deep and proven expertise in the…