Assistant Controller

Assistant ControllerLocation: Wheeling, ILWe are seeking an experienced Assistant Controller to join a growing, product-based organization in Wheeling, IL. This is an excellent opportunity for a strong accounting professional looking to take the next step in their career, with the potential to grow into a Controller role as they develop within the organization.The ideal candidate will have 7+ years of progressive accounting experience in a product-based industry, strong technical accounting and financial reporting skills, and a process-improvement mindset. We are looking for someone who will not only manage the day-to-day accounting function but also proactively identify opportunities to streamline processes, strengthen controls, improve reporting, and create efficiencies.Key ResponsibilitiesLead key aspects of the monthly, quarterly, and year-end closePrepare and review financial statements, journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedulesEnsure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAPOversee and support accounting for inventory, cost of goods sold, fixed assets, accruals, and other product-related accounting areasMaintain and strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and proceduresDrive process improvements and automation initiatives across the accounting functionIdentify inefficiencies within existing accounting processes and implement scalable solutionsPartner cross-functionally with operations and other departments to improve financial visibility and reportingSupport internal and external auditsAssist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysisMentor and develop members of the accounting teamPartner closely with senior finance leadership on strategic initiatives and special projectsTake on increasing responsibility with the opportunity to develop toward a future Controller positionQualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field7+ years of progressive accounting experienceExperience within a product-based industry, such as manufacturing, distribution, consumer products, food and beverage, or industrial productsStrong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reportingExperience with month-end close, balance sheet reconciliations, financial statements, and operational accountingInventory and cost accounting exposure strongly preferredCPA is a strong plusStrong Excel and ERP systems experiencePrevious leadership or supervisory experience preferredDemonstrated process-improvement mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for greater efficiency, automation, and stronger controlsStrong communication skills and ability to partner effectively across accounting, finance, and operationsWhy This OpportunityClear opportunity for continued growth toward a Controller roleHigh-visibility position working closely with senior finance leadershipOpportunity to make an impact through process improvement, automation, and optimizationBroad exposure across technical, operational, and corporate accountingIdeal opportunity for a step-up candidate or a Controller from a smaller organization looking for greater scale and complexityEqual Employment OpportunityWe are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.