Controller (A&D Manufacturing)

Our client, a respected small to mid-sized aerospace manufacturer, is looking to appoint a Senior Controller to support its operations in Phoenix, Arizona. The organization is a recognized provider of pressure, temperature, and liquid flow switches and sensors, serving aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. As an ISO 9001 and AS 9100D certified business, the company offers a stable, family‑owned environment with a strong emphasis on growth, innovation, and long‑term success. This individual will act as the senior finance leader for the business, overseeing financial reporting, compliance, cost controls, and strategic financial support across both Phoenix and Mexico operations. Reporting directly to the Treasurer, the position will have responsibility for accounting, budgeting, forecasting, tax matters, compliance, and overall financial stewardship in support of continued business growth. This is a hands‑on leadership opportunity suited to someone comfortable operating at both a strategic and day‑to‑day level. The successful candidate will supervise a small finance team while also helping to develop and mentor additional accounting staff as the function expands. Our client is seeking someone with strong aerospace or defense manufacturing experience, familiarity with government contracting, and a demonstrated background in financial leadership within a manufacturing setting. Key Responsibilities: Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long‑range financial planning across multiple sites Oversee physical inventory processes with a target variance of less than 0.5% Manage 13‑week cash flow forecasting and banking relationships Support pricing activities for RFQs and longer‑term contract opportunities Coordinate with outside CPAs on tax filings and R&D credit matters Drive ERP and broader process improvement initiatives Ensure compliance with GAAP, ITAR, EAR, DCAA, and FAR/DFARS requirements Direct monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting, including variance analysis Supervise accounting operations, including journal entries, financial statement preparation, cost accounting, payment processing, and tax compliance Oversee ERP standard cost structures and help improve margins through variance analysis Essential Qualifications Education & Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a Controller or comparable senior‑level role within aerospace or defense manufacturing Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline required Prior experience working in a mid‑sized organization of approximately 100–200 employees and $30M–$50M in revenue Must be eligible to work in a role requiring ITAR compliance 10+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience, including at least 5 years within aerospace manufacturing Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of GAAP, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting best practices Advanced ERP systems knowledge, such as Syteline, Epicor, Oracle, or similar platforms Experience with consolidated financial reporting across entities High‑level Excel and financial modeling capability, including pivot tables and lookup functions Deep expertise in standard costing, labor burden, and WIP valuation for machined and assembled parts Preferred Qualifications Power BI experience Hands‑on knowledge of DCAA audits and FAR Part 31 cost allowability CPA or MBA strongly preferred Familiarity with aerospace certifications and regulatory compliance requirements Experience with shop‑floor data collection systems Background implementing paperless AP/AR systems QuickBooks experience Location & Work Environment Travel is limited, though occasional trips to Mexico operations may be required Position is based in Phoenix, Arizona This is an on‑site role only; remote work is not available Competitive salary range: $150 - $180K Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance 401(k) Paid Sick and Vacation Leave Equal Employment Opportunity and Non‑Discrimination Policy Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. 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