Controller

Aero Industries Inc•Indianapolis, IN

About The Position

Aero Industries, Inc. is a manufacturer of tarp systems and heavy-duty truck and trailer accessories, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, with satellite locations in Nebraska and Ohio and a nationwide network of independent dealers. The Controller will lead the company’s finance and accounting transformation and IT functions, working closely with operations and leadership. Reporting to the CEO, this role oversees financial operations, reporting, cost management, internal controls, compliance, strategic planning, team leadership, and finance systems and process improvement. The position offers a potential path to Vice President of Finance as the organization grows. The Controller will oversee budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, GAAP-compliant financial statements, and monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes. The role will assess manufacturing costs and profitability, develop KPIs and cost intelligence, support pricing and sales operations, and provide financial insights to improve efficiency and growth. The Controller will establish sound controls and procedures, collaborate with the Vice President of Operations and other functions to improve manufacturing and workflows, and lead and develop the finance team. The role also evaluates systems and reporting tools and promotes process improvement, including automation. Occasional travel to satellite locations is required (<5%).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
At least 7–10 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including at least 5 years in a manufacturing environment.
Proven track record managing financial operations and leading a finance team.
Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.
Proficiency in ERP systems, database reporting, and advanced Excel.
Excellent analytical, strategic-thinking, problem-solving, communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
Capability in business and management principles, including strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership techniques, and Lean methodology.
Experience building and developing teams, fostering collaboration and cross-functional problem solving, and clarifying roles and responsibilities.
Ability to collaborate effectively and interact at all organizational levels, build trust and strong relationships, and lead change.
Strong work ethic and ownership, with commitment to meeting objectives on time and with diligence and accuracy.
Process, project-management, and continuous-improvement orientation; hands-on leadership and coaching ability.
Metrics-driven and execution-oriented, with urgency and a people-centric approach.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, meet deadlines, and maintain composure under stress.
Ability to travel occasionally to satellite locations (<5%).

Nice To Haves

CPA or CMA certification.
Tech-savvy approach and interest in automation, ERP concepts, databases, and the potential for AI.

Responsibilities

Oversee financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
Ensure accurate and timely preparation of GAAP-compliant financial statements and manage monthly, quarterly, and annual closing processes.
Prepare annual and companywide budgets, quantify growth contributors, and report and explain monthly variances and forecast impacts.
Analyze manufacturing costs and variances, implement cost-control measures, and review operating costs and profit margins for efficiency and profitability opportunities.
Develop and monitor KPIs, prepare monthly customer- and product-profitability reporting, and develop product/job pricing scorecards and cost intelligence.
Provide costing and pricing information to support sales operations.
Establish and maintain internal controls, ensure regulatory and policy compliance, and develop controls for bill payment, cash and check reconciliations, accounts receivable, insurance, and payroll.
Develop, implement, and manage accounting procedures and identify control problems and corrective actions.
Partner with the Vice President of Operations to develop a team and improve manufacturing capabilities, reduce costs, and improve ease of manufacturing.
Partner with senior management on long-term financial strategies and analyze statements and management reports for trends, risks, and opportunities.
Provide financial insights and recommendations to support business growth and operational efficiency.
Lead, coach, and develop the finance team and foster continuous improvement and professional growth.
Evaluate and enhance financial systems, processes, and reporting tools; implement best practices to streamline operations and improve accuracy.
Define the short- and long-term financial strategy roadmap and collaborate with executive leadership and other functions to achieve company goals.
Establish and communicate financial policies, practices, standards, and security measures.
Review and approve cost-control reports, cost estimates, and staffing requirements; present performance reports and metrics to leadership.
Work with Human Resources to identify training needs and ensure appropriate training is developed and provided.
Analyze product, productivity, and other data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
Collaborate with Operations, Sales, Purchasing, and other teams to optimize workflows and promote continuous improvement.
Work with Purchasing to identify and qualify suppliers and support a sustainable, efficient supply chain.
Establish systems and coach managers to monitor employee production and satisfaction; work with key team members to set collaborative goals.
Maintain knowledge of emerging technologies and industry trends.
Occasionally travel to satellite locations (<5%).