Controller

Our Manufacturing/Distribution client is looking for their 1st Controller.

This role is Onsite (in the beginning) close to Lake Charles

This is a smaller company so Hands-On will be required here

Responsibilities:

• Partner with purchasing and operations to improve inventory accuracy, understand product costs and manage working capital.
• Lead monthly, quarterly and annual close activities, including financial statement preparation and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Coach 1 staff accountant.
• Establish practical accounting policies, approval procedures and internal controls.
• Oversee general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable and inventory accounting activities.
• Collaborate with leadership on budgets, forecasts and business performance reviews.
• Monitor inventory valuation, COGS, reserves, aging and slow-moving or obsolete stock.
• Develop management reports that explain performance drivers and translate financial data into actionable recommendations.
• Improve accounting workflows, reduce manual effort and strengthen audit readiness.
• Monitor collections and cash conversion while strengthening controls around inventory movements, adjustments and physical counts.

Qualifications:

• Some inventory accounting and COGS experience , along with direct ownership of close and financial reporting.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field.
• Ability to work Hands-On effectively with leadership and cross-functional teams while remaining closely involved in day-to-day accounting.
• Approximately 7+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• Experience in industrial distribution, manufacturing, aftermarket parts, MRO distribution or another inventory-intensive business preferred.
• Financial systems implementation or conversion experience is a plus.