Controller

Controller

Location: Lake in the Hills, IL

Schedule: Monday-Friday 1st shift

Compensation: $120,000-$140,000 annually

The Controller is a strategic and hands-on leader responsible for the financial health, integrity, and operational effectiveness of AFC Materials Group's accounting function. This individual will lead all accounting operations, financial reporting, cash flow management, cost accounting, budgeting, compliance, and internal controls while serving as a trusted business partner to executive leadership. This role is ideal for a resilient, solutions-oriented leader who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will be comfortable navigating complexity, challenging the status quo, and identifying opportunities to improve financial performance through sound analysis, operational partnership, and continuous improvement. This is not a role for someone who simply maintains financial processes—it is an opportunity to build, improve, and lead.

What You'll Do

• Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, payroll support, month-end close, and year-end financial reporting.
• Prepare, analyze, and present accurate monthly financial statements, financial reports, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to executive leadership.
• Oversee cost accounting activities, including inventory valuation, standard costing, variance analysis, and manufacturing cost reporting.
• Develop and maintain annual budgets, financial forecasts, cash flow projections, and long-range financial plans.
• Partner with Operations and department leaders to improve profitability, strengthen inventory controls, and support strategic business decisions.
• Evaluate existing accounting processes and proactively identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, internal controls, and overall financial performance.
• Lead process improvement initiatives from concept through implementation, creating sustainable solutions that support business growth.
• Manage finance-related projects, establishing priorities, timelines, and measurable outcomes while ensuring projects are completed successfully.
• Develop, document, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and standard operating practices.
• Utilize Sightline ERP and other financial systems to improve reporting capabilities, streamline workflows, and support data-driven decision making.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and all applicable federal, state, and local financial regulations.
• Coordinate annual audits and maintain productive relationships with external auditors, banks, insurance providers, and other financial partners.
• Lead, coach, mentor, and develop the accounting team while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Effectively delegate responsibilities while maintaining oversight of departmental priorities and performance.
• Work independently with minimal supervision, demonstrate strong organization, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Take ownership of complex financial and operational challenges by identifying root causes, developing practical solutions, and driving improvements to completion.
• Think strategically while remaining hands-on, balancing day-to-day accounting responsibilities with long-term business initiatives.
• Demonstrate resilience and adaptability in a changing environment, remain focused on solutions and continuous improvement.
• Build strong cross-functional relationships and collaborate effectively with Operations, Sales, Human Resources, and Executive Leadership.
• Promote a positive, ethical, and team-oriented work environment while modeling the company's core values.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting preferred; Finance, Business Administration, or a related field will be considered.
• 3+ years of progressive accounting experience in a manufacturing environment required.
• 2+ years of leadership or management experience supervising accounting or finance professionals required.
• Demonstrated experience in manufacturing and cost accounting, including inventory accounting, financial reporting, and budgeting/forecasting required.
• Experience supporting manufacturing companies with annual revenues under $100 million and approximately 100–300 employees preferred.
• Project management experience, including leading initiatives from planning through implementation, preferred.
• Strong understanding of internal controls and financial planning preferred.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required.
• Experience with Sightline ERP and EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) strongly preferred.

Why Join AFC?

• Stability & Growth: Industry leader with over 30 years of proven success
• Full Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision) – starting 1st of the month after 30 days
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous PTO & 10 Paid Holidays
• Annual Safety Shoe & Gym Reimbursement
• Tuition Reimbursement & In-House Training (AFC University)
• $2,000 Referral Bonus Program

About Us

AFC Materials Group, headquartered in Lake in the Hills, IL, is a global leader in high-temperature and non-stick composite solutions. Since 1988, we've partnered with OEMs, distributors, and end users to solve complex production challenges through expert coating, converting, and fabrication capabilities. For over 30 years, we've built a reputation on innovation, reliability, and a strong commitment to our people and customers. Join a team where growth, quality, and forward thinking are at the core of what we do.

AFC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets

AFC is a Drug-free workplace