This search is being conducted by Steve Spinello.
Controller
Location: Greater Chattanooga area
Compensation: Competitive base + bonus + strong work-life balance
Our client, a well-established manufacturing organization, is seeking a Controller to lead day-to-day accounting operations and provide financial insight that supports key business decisions. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for an experienced accounting professional who enjoys balancing technical accounting oversight with operational finance support.
Reporting into senior leadership, the Controller will oversee a small accounting team and play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy of financial reporting, managing costing and inventory processes, and delivering analysis that helps drive business performance. This organization offers a collaborative, team-oriented culture with a strong emphasis on work-life balance, making it an attractive opportunity for someone seeking both stability and visibility.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all accounting operations, including month-end close, general ledger activity, and financial reporting
- Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of 3 accounting professionals
- Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
- Oversee cost accounting processes, including standard costing, job costing, and product costing
- Manage inventory analysis, reconciliations, and controls surrounding physical inventory
- Perform and explain variance analysis across materials, labor, and overhead to support operational decision-making
- Partner closely with operations leadership to improve financial visibility and enhance performance
- Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and accounting best practices
- Identify and implement opportunities to improve processes, systems, and reporting efficiency
What Sets This Role Apart
- Excellent work-life balance compared to many manufacturing environments
- Stable, team-oriented culture with strong leadership support
- High visibility role with the ability to influence decision-making
- Opportunity to oversee both core accounting and operational finance activities
Ideal Background
- Current Controller or a strong Accounting Manager ready for the next step
- Comfortable working in a mid-sized manufacturing environment
- Analytical and detail-oriented, with the ability to communicate effectively across operations and leadership
- Proven track record of leading teams and improving accounting processes
If youโre interested in learning more about this opportunity, please apply today.
Based on general knowledge.
Qualifications
- Bachelorโs degree in Accounting required
- 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including strong experience in manufacturing
- Demonstrated cost accounting and inventory experience required
- Prior people management experience with direct supervisory responsibility
- Strong understanding of financial statements and month-end close
- Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, lookups, and data analysis
- ERP experience required; experience with a manufacturing ERP is a plus