Controller

LM MANUFACTURING LLC•Detroit, MI

About The Position

A growing automotive manufacturing organization in the Metro Detroit area is seeking an experienced, strategic Plant Controller to lead financial operations. This hands-on financial leader will oversee accounting operations, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cost management, payroll oversight, and regulatory compliance. The role is intended to strengthen financial controls, improve profitability, and support strategic business decisions through close partnership with executive and operational leadership. The Controller will lead the Finance Department and play a visible role in organizational performance and growth. The position offers potential advancement into senior financial leadership, including Director of Finance, depending on performance and organizational needs.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
At least 8 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience, preferably in automotive or high-volume manufacturing.
At least 3 years of supervisory or financial leadership experience.
Demonstrated experience with month-end and year-end closing, financial statement preparation, budgeting, forecasting, and audit management.
Strong working knowledge of manufacturing cost accounting, inventory controls, and OEM-related financial processes.
Experience developing cost-containment strategies and identifying profit-improvement opportunities.
Working knowledge of GAAP, financial controls, and SOX compliance requirements.
Experience with ERP financial systems.

Nice To Haves

CPA, CMA, or MBA.
Experience in automotive manufacturing, assembly operations, or Tier 1/Tier 2 supplier environments.
Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and financial modeling.
Experience working directly with executive leadership on financial strategy and business planning.
Demonstrated success implementing process improvements, strengthening financial controls, and developing finance teams.
Experience with SAP ERP.

Responsibilities

Lead and develop the Finance Department, including accounting, payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.
Oversee daily accounting operations and ensure accurate, timely financial reporting in accordance with GAAP.
Manage month-end and year-end close activities, including journal entries, accruals, balance sheet reconciliations, and intercompany transactions.
Prepare weekly cash flow forecasts and monitor working capital requirements.
Develop and analyze monthly financial reporting packages covering asset performance, operating expenses, and key financial indicators.
Lead annual budgeting and ongoing forecasting in partnership with executive and operational leadership.
Analyze manufacturing costs, operating expenses, and financial performance to identify cost-reduction and profitability-improvement opportunities.
Monitor inventory valuation, cost accounting practices, and financial performance related to automotive manufacturing.
Provide financial insights and recommendations to support operational efficiency, resource allocation, and strategic decisions.
Lead internal and external financial audits and ensure timely resolution of findings.
Maintain effective financial controls and support compliance with applicable SOX requirements.
Ensure financial records, reporting, and accounting practices comply with applicable regulations and company policies.
Oversee annual physical inventory financial controls and reconciliation activities.
Prepare corporate financial schedules and reporting submissions by established deadlines.
Support supplier-diversity and minority-spend financial reporting requirements.
Use SAP ERP and other financial systems to improve reporting accuracy, process efficiency, and financial visibility.
Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, strengthen internal controls, and improve data integrity.
Collaborate with manufacturing, operations, supply chain, and executive teams on continuous improvement initiatives.
Establish department objectives, performance expectations, and accountability measures.
Conduct performance evaluations, coach team members, and support professional development.
Promote a collaborative, solutions-oriented leadership approach.
Ensure compliance with applicable workplace safety, environmental, and organizational standards.