What are the responsibilities and job description for the Finance Manager/Controller - Manufacturing position at Food Management Search?
Controller – Manufacturing (Onsite | Columbus, OH)
We are partnering with a manufacturing organization in Columbus, OH to identify a strategic and forward-looking Controller to lead all accounting and financial operations. This role extends well beyond traditional accounting oversight—the Controller will serve as a key business partner to leadership, helping shape financial strategy, strengthen internal controls, and ensure the organization’s long-term financial stability.
The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of balancing hands-on execution with high-level financial leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all core accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cost accounting
- Ensure timely and accurate processing of vendor payments, customer invoicing, and employee compensation
- Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations
- Oversee month-end and year-end close processes; partner with external CPA on audits and financial reporting requirements
- Prepare and file all tax-related documentation accurately and within established deadlines
- Develop and distribute budgets, financial reports, and performance dashboards to support operational transparency
- Drive financial planning initiatives, including forecasting, budgeting, and long-term modeling
- Analyze financial performance and deliver actionable insights and recommendations to leadership
- Monitor expenses and ensure alignment with budgetary goals while proactively identifying future financial needs
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability
- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing accounting team
- Support additional financial and operational initiatives as needed
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered
- Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience
- Strategic mindset with the ability to anticipate financial trends, risks, and opportunities
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative leadership approach
- Professional presence with the ability to effectively represent the organization
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and experience with ERP systems
- Experience with accounting software, including QuickBooks, strongly preferred
- High level of integrity, discretion, and ethical judgment
- Exceptional attention to detail and organizational capabilities