Controller, Bilingual

Job Title: Bilingual Controller (Full-Time)
Location: Hybrid - East end - Ottawa, Ontario (with occasional travel to other branches across Canada)
Reports to: President / CFO (or equivalent senior leadership)
Salary: $100,000–$120,000 + bonus

We are a leading distributor with multiple locations across Canada. With a strong focus on customer service, technical support, and strategic inventory management, we continue to grow while prioritizing quality, trust, and long-term relationships.

We are seeking a bilingual Controller to join a seasoned accounting team. This role is ideal for a solid, capable, and confident finance professional who is adaptable, team-oriented, and eager to learn the business. Our AP and AR teams are strong, and systems run smoothly — you will provide support, guidance, and strategic financial oversight while managing HR responsibilities.

• Lead full-cycle accounting (GL, month-end close, bank reconciliations).
• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Oversee inventory accounting and costing in collaboration with operations.
• Provide information and support to external auditors for year-end audits.

• Develop annual budgets and rolling forecasts with department leaders.
• Track performance against budgets and provide actionable variance analysis.
• Support pricing, margin, and cost reviews tied to overall profitability.

• Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with Canadian accounting standards, Revenue Québec, and tax requirements.

• Monitor cash flow, working capital, and banking relationships.
• Oversee credit and collections policies as needed.
• Support capital planning for equipment, facilities, or technology investments.

• Act as HR lead, overseeing payroll (through ADP), vacation tracking, RRSP/pension plan, and employee benefits.
• Provide mentorship and support to AP/AR teams as needed — primarily as a sounding board, not heavy supervision.
• Promote a collaborative and team-oriented environment.

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation.
• Partner with senior leadership on strategic initiatives and financial planning.
• Support cross-functional projects while respecting the established, efficient accounting team.

• Bilingual (French & English) — essential due to Québec business and Revenue Québec requirements.
• CPA designation (or equivalent accounting designation in Canada).
• 5–7 years of progressive accounting/finance experience, ideally in wholesale, distribution, or logistics.
• Solid understanding of inventory-centric business models and cost accounting.
• Advanced Excel skills; experience with accounting and ERP systems (Infor Cloud Suite Distribution preferred).
• Team-oriented, adaptable, and collaborative approach.

• Strong business partnering and strategic thinking skills.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and integrity.
• Process-minded, but flexible in approach to support an existing high-functioning team.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, multi-branch distribution environment.

• Competitive salary + bonus, paid vacation, personal days, birthday off, and some paid holiday time.
• Pension matching up to 3%.
• Opportunity to influence growth and financial strategy across a national footprint.
• Collaborative, service-focused environment with experienced industry professionals.