Controller

Job Description

Job Description

Lead Finance for a Growing PE-Backed Manufacturing Organization

Our client is a rapidly growing, private equity-backed manufacturer and distributor of specialty cosmetic ingredients serving leading beauty, personal care, skincare, and consumer products companies. Due to continued growth and strategic initiatives, the company is seeking a Controller to oversee all accounting and financial reporting operations while partnering closely with executive leadership and private equity stakeholders.

This is a highly visible leadership role that offers a blend of hands-on accounting leadership, operational finance, process improvement, and strategic business partnering within a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Why This Opportunity?

✅ Private equity-backed growth environment

✅ Opportunity to partner directly with the CEO, CFO, and PE investors

✅ Significant exposure to strategic initiatives and business transformation

✅ Leadership role with the ability to influence operations and financial performance

✅ Fast-growing manufacturing company serving the beauty and personal care industry

✅ Opportunity to build and develop the accounting team

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and financial reporting.
• Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
• Prepare accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
• Oversee inventory accounting, cost accounting, and manufacturing accounting activities.
• Analyze gross margins, inventory variances, and operational performance metrics.
• Partner with operations, supply chain, and sales leadership to drive profitability and improve decision-making.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial planning initiatives.
• Develop and maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies.
• Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, tax advisors, and lenders.
• Support board reporting, lender reporting, and private equity ownership requests.
• Drive process improvement initiatives, automation efforts, and ERP optimization projects.
• Assist with acquisition integration, financial due diligence, and other strategic growth initiatives as needed.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop accounting staff while creating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance.
• CPA strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience.
• Prior Controller, Assistant Controller, or Accounting Manager experience.
• Manufacturing industry experience required.