Controller

Aero Industries•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 company is focused on building a high-performing, collaborative team to implement change and support growth, including expansion into new products and markets. Reporting to the CEO, the Controller will lead Aero’s finance and accounting transformation and IT functions while working closely with operations and company leadership. The role oversees financial operations, reporting, planning, cost management, internal controls, compliance, strategic analysis, team leadership, and improvements to financial systems and processes. The position offers a potential path to advancement to Vice President of Finance, depending on organizational growth. Occasional travel to satellite locations is expected, at less than 5%.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
7–10 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including at least 5 years in a manufacturing environment.
Proven experience managing financial operations and leading a finance team.
Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.
Proficiency with ERP systems and database reporting, and advanced Excel skills.
Excellent analytical, strategic-thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Strong leadership, communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
Knowledge of 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 interact collaboratively at all organizational levels and build trust and strong relationships.
Change-agent mindset, including the courage to propose new directions to help the company transform and grow.
Strong work ethic and ownership of responsibilities and objectives, with a commitment to timely, diligent, and accurate execution.
Process, project-management, and continuous-improvement orientation.
Hands-on leadership and coaching ability; metrics-driven, execution-oriented, urgent, and people-centric approach.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, meet deadlines, and maintain composure under stress.
Occasional travel to satellite locations of less than 5%.

Nice To Haves

CPA or CMA certification.

Responsibilities

Oversee financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and preparation of GAAP-compliant financial statements.
Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closing processes.
Prepare annual budgets, explain monthly variances against actual performance, and assess their impact on forecasts.
Analyze manufacturing costs and variances, implement cost controls, and monitor KPIs, operating costs, and profit margins.
Prepare monthly profitability reporting by customer and product; develop product and job pricing scorecards and cost intelligence; and provide costing and pricing information to support sales operations.
Establish and maintain internal controls, compliance practices, and safeguards for company assets.
Develop controls for administrative functions, including bill payment, cash and check reconciliations, accounts receivable, insurance, and payroll.
Develop and manage accounting procedures and identify control problems and corrective actions.
Partner with the Vice President of Operations to develop a team that improves manufacturing capabilities, reduces costs, and improves ease of manufacturing.
Partner with senior management on long-term financial strategy and provide analysis of trends, risks, opportunities, growth, and operational efficiency.
Lead and develop the finance team, supporting continuous improvement, collaboration, coaching, training, and professional growth.
Evaluate and improve financial systems, processes, and reporting tools; implement practices to streamline operations and improve accuracy.
Define and lead the short- and long-term financial strategy roadmap and manage the companywide budget.
Collaborate with executive leadership and other functions to meet company goals and ensure departmental decisions and project plans align with the business plan and vision.
Establish, communicate, and implement 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.
Analyze product, productivity, and other data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
Work 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.
Work with Human Resources to identify training needs and ensure appropriate training is developed and delivered.
Establish systems and coach managers to monitor employee production and satisfaction; work with key team members to set shared team and individual goals.
Maintain knowledge of emerging industry technologies and trends.