Plant Controller

About Lakeside Book Company
Lakeside Book Company is the largest book manufacturer in North America - and we love books. Every title we produce matters, and so does every hand that helps make it. Our people are at the heart of our success, and our mission is simple: Keep the world reading.

Pay: $110,000-$130,000 depending upon experience

Location : 3094 Lester Dr, Kendallville, IN 46755

Benefits : Competitive benefits including 401k match and Incentive Bonus

How you will make an impact:

You will lead all plant -level accounting, financial reporting and analysis activities to support strategic business decision-making and will be a key business partner to plant leadership and VP of Manufacturing with accountability for financial performance, compliance and continuous improvement activities.


What You'll Do:

• Lead all plant accounting and financial reporting activities with accuracy, timeliness and compliance with corporate and regulatory guidance
• Own the monthly close process including journal entries, reconciliation and variance analysis
• Prepare and analyze financial results including P&L variances to forecast, budget and prior year, communicating insights to management
• Coordinate annual budget and periodic forecasts and serve as a key contributor to strategic and capital planning activities
• Partner with plant and operations leadership to evaluate productivity, cost reduction and working capital initiatives
• Lead capital expenditure, inventory and cost accounting activities
• Continuously improve processes and coach and develop finance staff

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in finance or accounting required; CPA and/or MBA preferred
• 7+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience in a manufacturing environment including cost accounting and financial reporting
• Demonstrated experience with budgeting, forecasting, inventory valuation and capital analysis
• Strong working knowledge of internal controls and financial compliance requirements
• Proven ability to analyze complex financial data and translate it into actionable business insights
• Experience partnering with operations or manufacturing leadership is preferred
• Proficiency with ERP and financial reporting systems; Microsoft Dynamics and Essbase experience a plus
• Advance skills in Microsoft Excel and related financial tools
• Strong communication and leadership skills

Lakeside Book Company - What Makes Us Special:

Our focus on Safety, Stewardship, Inclusivity, and Environmental Sustainability give so many of our employees' pride in the work we do within the communities we inhabit. Employees are celebrated throughout the year with Inspire Awards, Milestone Anniversary Celebrations and many other recognition celebrations.


Discover What Makes Kendallville Special
Opened 12 years ago as a digital plant, our Kendallville site combines innovation with small-town charm. With a tight-knit team and a strong community presence, we're proud to call this a vibrant town.

We employ approximately 160 team members who bring energy, care, and commitment to everything they do. Our flexible environment supports work-life balance and respects every voice.

Kendallville offers a variety of fun, local traditions:

• Community events like the Apple Festival, Bluegrass Festival, 4-H Fair, and Christmas Parade
• Unique spots like the Windmill Museum and Historic Downtown
• A welcoming small-town atmosphere with year-round festivals

We Give Back to Our Community
Our employees take pride in giving back:

• Volunteer and donate to local groups like Kate's Carts, the Salvation Army, and East Noble Schools
• Active in the Chamber of Commerce, cancer walks, and the Kendallville Masjid/American Muslim Society
• Regular supporters of the local food pantry, 4-H Fair, and Apple Fest

We Celebrate and Support Our People
A fun and engaging culture keeps our team connected:

• Food-focused fun like pizza days, donut & cider treats, and breakfasts cooked by managers
• Games and recognition events like Plinko Month, Safety Bingo, and NCAA brackets
• Holiday activities like "Mix & Mingle" Chex Mix bars and College Swag Days

What makes Kendallville truly stand out?
Our people. Employees are heard, respected, and supported-with real growth opportunities. We value flexibility, balance, and building a workplace where everyone can thrive.


A Culture of Safety and Responsibility
At Lakeside Book Company, safety is more than a rule - it's part of who we are. We're committed to creating a workplace where every employee, visitor, and customer. That means staying alert, looking out for one another, and making smart, safe daily choices.

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

We're also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io.

Please note: This job posting outlines key responsibilities and expectations for the role. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.