Controller

Position Title: Controller

Location: Aurora, IL (U.S. Operations)

Reports To: Global CFO

Business Partner: Site General Manager

THE POSITION

 The Controller is a senior finance leadership role responsible for overseeing the fiscal functions of the company’s U.S. operations. Reporting directly to the Global CFO and acting as a strategic business partner to the site General Manager, the Controller will ensure sound financial management practices in accordance with GAAP and regulatory requirements. This role will be central in supporting the company’s operating and growth objectives by managing all aspects of financial controls, compliance, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.

This position plays a key role in ensuring the company remains sufficiently capitalized and positioned for growth. The Controller will oversee all financial reporting and analysis, including controllership, operational accounting, FP&A, payroll, banking relationships, and risk mitigation strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

•  Strategic Partnership
  • Serve as a strategic business partner to leadership, offering insights and guidance on financial performance, business operations, and strategic direction.
  • Develop and implement tools and systems to provide actionable financial and operational data to the executive team.
  • Drive performance improvements and cost optimization by making proactive recommendations on strategy, budgeting, and operations financial performance

• Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) and financial reporting
  • Ensure the accurate and timely delivery of financial reports, including weekly forecasts, monthly financial statements, balance sheet schedules, and annual budgets.
  • Conduct thorough analysis of financial results and develop tactical and strategic recommendations based on data-driven insights.
  • Provide financial analysis on key business initiatives

• Cash Flow and Banking
  • Oversee cash flow planning, ensuring the company has sufficient liquidity to meet operational and growth needs.
  • Develop and maintain strong banking relationships and manage financing strategies.
  • Manage the accounts receivable, accounts payable and cash balances

• Controllership, Compliance & Risk Mitigation
  • Maintain and monitor compliance with GAAP, federal and state regulations, and other legal requirements.
  • Oversee compliance for all financial obligations, including taxes, regulatory filings, and reporting requirements.
  • Oversee the timely preparation and reconciliation of balance sheet accounts
  • Develop and enforce internal financial controls and financial policies/procedures across all financial functions to ensure legal and regulatory compliance.
  • Provide an oversight of regulatory reporting and fillings, contracts, taxes (Sales, Property, Income), and ensure that compliance deadlines are met.

• Team Leadership & Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team by providing guidance, coaching, and performance evaluations.
  • Build a high-performing team through recruitment, training, and career development.
  • Foster a collaborative and results-oriented culture to maximize productivity, morale, and engagement across the team.

Key Qualifications:

• Educational Background:
  • A 4-year degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required, MBA preferred
  • CPA required

• Experience:
  • Minimum of 10 years of proven success in financial leadership with experience in general accounting, financial analysis, FP&A, cost accounting, and budgeting.
  • Experience in the manufacturing sector is highly preferred, but not mandatory.
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop teams
  • Experience in building financial models and managing cash flow for a complex organization.

• Leadership & Skills:
  • High integrity, ethical standards, and sound judgment in financial decision-making.
  • A decisive, action-oriented, and results-driven professional with a focus on achieving operational and financial goals.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with leaders across various functions and at all levels of the organization.
  • Ability to lead teams through change, driving efficiency, cost control, and growth.

• Personal Attributes:
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
  • High energy and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
  • Ability to think strategically and apply analytical skills to solve complex financial issues.
  • A mentor-style leadership approach with a focus on developing staff and fostering a positive team environment.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate for this role is a highly intelligent and self-motivated finance leader with a proven track record in driving financial performance in a manufacturing or similar sector. They possess strong analytical skills, a big-picture strategic vision, and a deep understanding of financial management practices. They will be a strong leader, capable of building a cohesive team, motivating others, and effectively communicating a clear vision for growth and operational success.

They should demonstrate high emotional intelligence, resilience, and adaptability, with a strong ability to collaborate across functional teams and levels of the organization. This candidate will thrive in an environment where they can apply their financial expertise to drive performance improvements while balancing regulatory compliance and risk management.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth