Controller

SCHAEFER PLASTICS NA LLC•Charlotte, NC

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Controller to oversee the daily accounting operations for our growing manufacturing organization. This is a working leadership role ideal for an accounting professional who enjoys being actively involved in financial operations while mentoring and developing a high-performing team. The Controller is responsible for ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintaining strong internal controls, supporting compliance with U.S. GAAP, and driving continuous process improvements. This position partners closely with the Director of Finance and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to support strategic business objectives and operational excellence. The ideal candidate brings a combination of public accounting experience, manufacturing expertise, strong technical accounting knowledge, and a collaborative leadership style.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance.
Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive accounting experience.
Previous public accounting experience (Big Four or regional public accounting firm preferred).
Experience managing external financial statement audits.
Manufacturing industry accounting experience.
Strong knowledge of inventory accounting and cost accounting.
Advanced knowledge of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Experience working with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
Strong technical accounting and financial reporting expertise.
Thorough understanding of manufacturing accounting and inventory valuation.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.
High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to build effective working relationships across all levels of the organization.
Demonstrated ability to identify process improvement opportunities and implement solutions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 15 pounds.
Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.

Nice To Haves

CPA certification is strongly preferred.
Experience leading and developing accounting teams.
Experience improving accounting processes through automation and technology.
Multi-entity and/or multi-location manufacturing experience.
Experience supporting ERP implementations or system upgrades.

Responsibilities

Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process to ensure timely and accurate reporting.
Prepare and review financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and balance sheet analyses.
Ensure the integrity of the general ledger and financial reporting processes.
Coordinate annual external audits and prepare required audit schedules and supporting documentation.
Assist with year-end financial reporting and compliance requirements.
Oversee inventory accounting, standard costing, and cost accounting functions.
Analyze inventory transactions, manufacturing variances, and cost trends.
Partner with Operations to investigate and resolve production and inventory variances.
Ensure accurate inventory valuation and support physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.
Continuously improve inventory controls and cost accounting processes.
Maintain and strengthen internal accounting controls and financial policies.
Develop, document, and improve accounting procedures and workflows.
Ensure compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.
Lead audit readiness initiatives throughout the year.
Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks.
Lead, coach, mentor, and develop the accounting team.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Establish performance expectations and support professional development.
Serve as the department's technical accounting resource.
Promote operational excellence through process improvements and best practices.
Collaborate closely with Operations, Purchasing, Customer Service, Sales, and other departments.
Provide financial analysis and reporting to support operational and strategic decision-making.
Participate in ERP enhancements, system implementations, and other cross-functional initiatives.
Support special projects as assigned by Finance leadership.