Controller

Controller - Growing Mftg Company

A well-established, growing manufacturing company in the Columbus area is seeking an experienced Controller to lead its accounting function. This role reports directly to the CFO and offers genuine potential for expanded finance leadership responsibilities as the company continues to scale. The ideal candidate brings a strong technical accounting background paired with a hands-on, process-improvement mindset — someone comfortable embracing automation and AI-enabled tools without losing sight of internal controls. This is a great fit for a leader who wants real influence over the accounting function's direction, not just month-end close ownership. The company offers a collaborative, team-oriented culture with an emphasis on employee development and work-life balance.

Responsibilities

Oversee all accounts, ledgers, and financial reporting, ensuring US GAAP compliance

Lead monthly financial review meetings with department owners and executive leadership

Serve as primary liaison with external auditors and outside tax preparers

Manage capital expenditure budgets and inventory/costing processes

Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including evaluation of automation and AI-enabled tools

Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash-flow/working-capital analysis

Lead and develop a small accounting team, including at least one direct-report manager

Why This Opportunity

Direct access to the CFO and executive leadership team

Clear, performance-based path to broader finance leadership

Complex, hands-on environment (costing/inventory) that goes beyond standard close work

Strong internal culture focused on development and team success

Opportunity to shape process and technology adoption, not just maintain it

Desired Candidate Profile

CPA or CMA preferred (or actively pursuing)

7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role

Background in public accounting or a corporate accounting environment

Experience in a manufacturing or production-based setting, ideally with standard costing

Prior experience managing a small team