Financial Controller

We are seeking a strategic and hands-on Financial Controller to direct all financial functions, systems, and controls. Reporting to the President, with a dotted-line relationship to the CEO, the Financial Controller serves as a strategic business partner. This role provides leadership to the finance team (approximately 6 staff) and is a key member of the senior leadership team, helping guide the company's financial strategy, performance, and long‑term growth Essential Job Functions: Financial Leadership & Strategy Lead and oversee all financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, cost accounting, tax, treasury, insurance, payroll, and benefits administration. Serve as the primary financial partner, providing insight into company performance, risks, and opportunities. Provide timely, accurate, and transparent financial reporting to support strategic decision‑making. Accounting, Controls & Compliance Ensure effective internal controls are designed, implemented, and maintained in accordance with GAAP and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Oversee preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. Ensure compliance with all financial covenants and reporting requirements related to debt instruments. Coordinate and lead annual audits, working directly with external auditors and CPAs. External Relationships Act as the primary point of contact and manage relationships with outside lenders, banks, auditors, CPAs, legal counsel, and other financial advisors. Partner with legal counsel on financial, contractual, and regulatory matters. Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis Oversee the budgeting and forecasting processes. Monitor actual financial results against budget and forecast, analyzing variances and providing clear explanations. Develop and maintain financial models and analysis for capital expenditures, pricing, product costing, and strategic initiatives. Cash & Treasury Management Oversee cash flow planning to ensure sufficient liquidity and availability of funds. Manage banking relationships and treasury activities. Payroll, Benefits & 401(k) Oversee payroll operations to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with applicable laws. Oversee administration of employee benefits programs, including health, welfare, and related plans. Serve as the fiduciary leader for the 401(k) retirement plan, including oversight of plan administration, compliance, reporting, and coordination with plan providers and advisors. Systems & Technology Oversee the MIS/financial systems function Review existing technology to ensure systems support operational and reporting needs across the organization. Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and accounting team. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and cross‑functional collaboration. Job Requirements Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance required; MBA strongly preferred. Minimum of 7 years of progressive finance and accounting experience. At least 5 years of senior leadership or management experience overseeing finance and accounting teams. Strong cost accounting experience: manufacturing or food processing environment preferred. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; experience working with ERP systems and financial reporting tools. Exceptional communication skills with the ability to present financial information to executives, shareholders, lenders, and employees at all levels. Physical Requirements Regular exposure to both office and plant environments. Must be able to travel periodically, including overnight travel.