Plant Controller

Job Description

Plant Controller | Manufacturing Start-up

Why this Plant Controller Role?

You are looking to help build and strengthen a growing start-ups accounting and finance function as the business continues to scale. You bring strong technical accounting experience as well as an understanding of manufacturing operations with the ability to create structure while being agile in a fast-moving environment.

About the Opportunity:

We’re partnering with a growing manufacturing start-up in the northern suburbs of Chicago that is looking to add an experienced Plant Controller to its team. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys a hands-on, high-impact role and is excited by the pace, visibility, and ownership that come with a start-up environment.

Key Responsibilities:

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• Own the accounting function, including month-end close, financial reporting, reconciliations, AP/AR, payroll, and overall day-to-day accounting operations.
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• Build and improve scalable processes, controls, reporting tools, and financial infrastructure to support continued growth.
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• Lead the optimization of SAP Business One
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• Partner closely with leadership and operations on cash flow planning, margin analysis, inventory, and providing some cost visibility.
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• Support internal cost accounting, ERP/reporting improvements, and any outside relationships and advisory partners as needed.
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• Translate financial data into clear insights and recommendations that help guide business decisions.
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• Report to the VP of Finance working in collaboration as a team identifying any discrepancies and providing process efficiencies and solutions.
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What We’re Looking For:

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• 7+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, ideally within manufacturing, distribution, or another product-based environment.
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• Strong knowledge of GAAP, month-end close, financial reporting, and internal controls.
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• Exposure to cost accounting, inventory, standard costing, margin analysis, or manufacturing-related reporting preferred.
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• Comfortable working in a start-up or high-growth environment where processes are evolving and priorities can shift quickly.
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• Hands-on, adaptable, and analytical, with the ability to work cross-functionally and communicate effectively with leadership and operations.
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• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA or MBA preferred but not required.
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Why This Role:

This is an opportunity to step into a visible finance leadership role at an exciting stage of growth. The Controller will have the chance to make an immediate impact, build processes from the ground up, partner closely with leadership, and help shape the financial foundation of a scaling manufacturing business