What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller/Head of Finance position at Chalfant Manufacturing?
Who We Are: Chalfant, a division of the OBO Bettermann Group, is a trusted leader in high-quality cable tray and cable management systems—all proudly made in the USA. With over 70 years of industry expertise, we combine innovation, craftsmanship, and customer focus to deliver solutions that power critical infrastructure across North America. At Chalfant, we're not just building products—we’re building a better future for our customers, our communities, and our team.
Job Summary/Purpose:
The Controller (Head of Finance) is responsible for overseeing all financial operations of the organization, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, cost control, and compliance. This position plays a critical leadership role in supporting strategic planning, ensuring fiscal discipline, and improving financial processes to support growth and profitability in a manufacturing environment.
The Controller will serve as a key business partner to the Managing Director and executive team, providing insights and recommendations to guide business decisions.
Key Responsibilities/Duties:
- Financial Leadership & Strategy
- Lead the finance and accounting function, including financial planning, reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
- Partner with executive leadership to shape company strategy through financial analysis, capital planning, and profitability optimization.
- Develop and maintain a robust financial control environment aligned with company policies.
- Provide clear financial insights to support operational and strategic decision-making.
- Accounting & Reporting
- Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and cost accounting.
- Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Manage audit processes (external and internal), tax filings, and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
- Maintain accurate financial records and implement best practices in accounting systems and controls.
- Manufacturing & Cost Accounting
- Oversee product costing, inventory valuation, and cost analysis to support pricing and profitability decisions.
- Collaborate with operations and production teams to monitor manufacturing costs, variances, and efficiency improvements.
- Develop and analyze key manufacturing KPIs (e.g., cost per unit, yield, scrap rate, overhead absorption).
- Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis
- Lead the annual budgeting process and periodic reforecasts.
- Develop financial models and variance analyses to evaluate performance and identify improvement opportunities.
- Provide actionable insights into financial trends, operational performance, and cash flow management.
- Treasury & Cash Management
- Oversee cash flow planning, working capital optimization, and banking relationships.
- Manage credit facilities, capital expenditures, and risk management programs.
- Evaluate financing needs and support strategic investments or expansion initiatives.
- Team leadership & Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and accounting team to ensure high performance and accountability.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, integrity, and collaboration.
- Implement systems and process improvements to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.
Required Qualifications/Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or CMA strongly preferred.
- 7–10 years of progressive experience in finance or accounting, including leadership experience as Controller, Director of Finance, or equivalent.
- Prior experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment required.
- Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory management, and ERP systems.
- Proven track record of building and managing high-performing finance teams.
Competencies/Skills:
- Deep knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills with the ability to partner cross-functionally.
- Proficiency in ERP/accounting software (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, Epicor, Microsoft Dynamics) and advanced Excel skills.
- High integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Technology and Equipment:
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
- Accounting Software
- Financial Reporting Tools
- Spreadsheet and Data Analysis Tools (Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
- Document Management Systems
- Standard Office Equipment (computer, printer, scanner, telephone)
- Secure Remote Access Tools (VPN, multi-factor authentication)
Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:
- Primarily office-based with frequent use of computers and other office technology; may include hybrid or remote work arrangements.
- Ability to sit for extended periods while working on a computer.
- Occasional standing, walking, and lifting of office materials (up to 20 lbs).
- Full-time position; may require extended hours during month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close or special projects.
Travel Requirements:
- 15%
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.