WILLIAM GEORGE LIAS Garysburg, NC ***** **********@*****.*** 252-***-****
PLANT CONTROLLER
Highly accomplished, seasoned plant controller with years of experience managing accounting and financial operations for manufacturing facilities. Expertise in leading financial teams, developing comprehensive management reports, flux analysis, and optimizing cost management to drive operational efficiency and profitability. Proven track record in maintaining standard costs and identifying opportunities for cash flow improvement, ensuring the successful implementation of financial systems. CORE EXPERTISE
Financial Reporting Cost Management Forecasting Accounting Policy Financial Data Analysis Internal Control Internal Audit Inventory Management Cost Reduction Financial Compliance Process Improvement Team Leadership Cash Management Management Reporting Insurance Claims Cost Analysis Tools Capital Planning Zero-Based Budgeting Inventory Valuation Risk Management Attention to Detail Excellent Communication Skills Technical Skills: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Oracle, SAP, JD Edwards, Data Analytics, Spreadsheets PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
PLANT CONTROLLER West Fraser Saw Mill – Seaboard, NC Mar 2021 – Present
Implement zero-based budgeting successfully, leading to greater financial transparency and managerial accountability.
Streamline month-end closing processes, reducing closing time by 30% and minimizing stress for the finance team.
Strengthen internal controls and regulatory adherence by establishing procedures, which helped ensure full SOX compliance.
Institute weekly cost meetings, resulting in better cost management and avoidance of unexpected financial variances.
Work closely with cross-functional teams to educate about cost drivers and support informed decision-making. PLANT CONTROLLER Spectra-Tech Manufacturing – Batavia, OH Mar 2018 – May 2020
Managed all accounting and financial reporting functions, serving as the sole financial support for the plant.
Introduced the weekly "Flash" report, improving management’s insight into financial and operational performance.
Pioneered zero-based budgeting process, resulting in more accurate and accountable financial planning.
Provided reliable weekly cash forecasts, facilitating better cash flow management and planning. PLANT CONTROLLER Suncoke Energy – Middletown, OH Apr 2011 – Oct 2017
Established accounting function and developed policies and procedures for new plant, ensuring smooth operational launch.
Maintained precise and timely payroll and accounting functions, contributing to smooth financial operations.
Coordinated quarterly coal-yard inventories with precision, supporting operational needs and inventory accuracy. ADDITIONAL PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
PLANT CONTROLLER Appleton Papers OH, West Carrolton – Roaring Spring, PA
Managed 12 professionals for accounting and payroll functions of 2 paper mills, ensuring efficient financial operations.
Developed and implemented SOX procedures while participating in Lean Activities; revamped management reports to provide production managers with actionable insights into financial performance.
Monitored standard costs, delivering product cost information to management and facilitating informed decision-making. EARLIER CAREER
Senior Auditor BANC One
Senior Auditor Mead Corp. – Miamisburg, OH
Norther Area Manager of Financial Services – Zellerbach Mead Corp. – Miamisburg, OH Asst Division Controller – Zellerbach Mead Corporation – Miamisburg, OH Interim Controller Mead Packaging, LTD – Sydney, Australia EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Accounting & Finance) The Ohio State University – Columbus, OH Certified Public Accountant (CPA) License 25986 (Inactive) State of Ohio