Controller

Department: Finance & Accounting 

Job Status: Regular Full Time 

FLSA Status: Exempt 

Reports To: Sr. VP of Finance (Ben Stanczyk)

Grade/Level: Salary 

Amount of Travel Required: <1%  

Work Schedule: M-F, usually 730 AM – 4 PM 

Positions Supervised: None 

About Great Lakes Industrial Company:  

Great Lakes Industrial (GLI) is a leader in the Industrial manufacturing & distribution sector, specializing in innovative engineered solutions and products. With a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we are driven by a passion for operational excellence. As we continue to expand, we seek a skilled and motivated Senior Accounting Manager to join our dynamic team.  

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Controller will be responsible for overseeing the company’s financial operations, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, and providing strategic financial insights to support business growth. This role involves managing accounting functions, financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls to ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS  

Reasonable Accommodations Statement  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Essential Functions:  

Cash Flow Management:

• Oversee cash flow management to ensure that sufficient funds are available for operational needs and capital expenditures.
• Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable processes to optimize cash flow. 

Strategic Financial Analysis:

• Collaborate with department heads to provide financial insights and strategic recommendations.
• Evaluate business opportunities, including investments, mergers, and acquisitions, to support corporate growth objectives.

Financial Reporting:

• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Lead the preparation of financial reports for executive management and stakeholders.
• Ensure timely filing of tax returns and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Develop and manage the annual budgeting process in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Provide accurate and timely financial forecasts to help guide strategic decision-making.
• Analyze financial data and trends to provide insights into cost control, profitability, and performance improvements.

Internal Controls, Audit, & Compliance:

• Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with relevant accounting regulations.
• Lead internal audits and coordinate with external auditors during audits to ensure timely and accurate results.
• Lead internal audits and coordinate with external auditors during audits to ensure timely and accurate results.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Foster a collaborative environment to support team development and continuous improvement.
• Develop processes and procedures to streamline accounting operations and improve efficiency.

Process Improvement:

• Continuously review and improve accounting processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, increase accuracy, and compliance.
• Identify and implement best practices in financial reporting, accounting procedures, and internal controls.

Cross-Department Collaboration:

• Work closely with other departments, including operations, procurement, and sales, to ensure accurate financial reporting and support business objectives.
• Provide financial insights and support to senior management in strategic decision-making.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS  

Competencies:  

The Controller must be proactive and energetic, committed to excelling at all Finance & Accounting aspects, essential tasks, as well as committed to the team, culture, and organization to maintain a well-run and respectable department. The Controller position has strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to move in a fast-paced environment.  

Skills & Abilities: 

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards 
• Effective time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field 

Experience: 5 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role and proven experience with financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls.

Computer Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, IBMI, PowerBI) preferred.

Certificates & Licenses: CPA or CMA certification preferred 

Other Requirements:  He/she must participate in mandated company emergency procedures such as fire evacuation procedures and active shooter procedures. They will also comply with company building and parking procedures.  

Other Physical Requirements: 

WORK ENVIRONMENT  

Work is performed primarily in the office. The noise level is generally quiet, with occasional louder activity. Work may also be performed in the office, helping to assist with activities needed in that area. Work is to be performed normally during company’s operating hours of 7:30am – 4:00pm CST Monday through Friday. There are few exceptions of extended work hours.