Controller

About Instant Hydration:

Instant Hydration is a fast-growing consumer packaged goods (CPG) company focused on clean, science-backed hydration solutions. With rapid expansion across eCommerce, subscription, and national retail channels, we are building a modern finance and accounting organization to support the company’s next phase of growth.

Role Overview:

We’re looking for a hands-on Controller who combines technical accounting depth with business partnership and operational acumen. This person will not only manage the accounting function but also help shape the systems, processes, and reporting infrastructure needed to scale. You’ll partner closely with business leaders to understand and account for new growth channels, ensure data accuracy across systems, and proactively surface insights that inform strategic decisions.

Accounting & Reporting

• Own the full accounting cycle: month-end close, consolidations, reconciliations, and financial statement preparation (GAAP)
• Oversee inventory, trade spend, and cost accounting processes across DTC, retail, and subscription channels
• Ensure timely and accurate management reporting packages, including margin bridges and variance analyses
• Investigate anomalies, uncover root causes, and drive corrective actions across accounting and operations

Systems, Process & Scalability

• Lead the implementation of a new ERP system, ensuring seamless integration with IMS, ecommerce, and banking systems
• Build and document scalable accounting processes and controls to support rapid multi-channel growth
• Partner cross-functionally to ensure accounting systems and reporting scale with the business
• Drive automation and process improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and accuracy

Business Partnership & Analysis

• Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and FP&A to understand new revenue models, retailer programs, and expansion channels
• Ensure accurate accounting treatment and financial tracking for emerging growth initiatives (e.g., retail launches, wholesale, Amazon)
• Provide analytical support and ad hoc investigations into margin, inventory, and working capital trends
• Translate accounting insights into actionable business recommendations

Controls & Compliance

• Maintain strong internal controls, policies, and procedures
• Manage external audits and coordinate with tax advisors for compliance and filings
• Monitor evolving accounting standards and ensure company-wide adherence

Leadership

• Develop and mentor a small but growing accounting team
• Create a culture of accuracy, curiosity, and continuous improvement
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CFO and executive team
  

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA strongly preferred
• 8 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally in CPG or consumer products
• Hands-on experience in high-growth or startup environments
• Demonstrated success implementing or optimizing ERP systems (NetSuite, QuickBooks Enterprise, or similar)
• Strong understanding of multi-channel revenue recognition, inventory, and trade spend accounting
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving and investigative skills
• Excellent communication skills and ability to partner cross-functionally
• Comfortable balancing detailed execution with process design and long-term scalability
• Willingness to travel periodically (10–20%)

• Be a foundational leader building the accounting infrastructure for a rapidly scaling CPG brand
• Work directly with the CFO and leadership team on strategic initiatives
• Blend hands-on execution with system-building and cross-functional influence
• Competitive compensation, equity participation, and flexible remote setup