What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at NOW CFO?
Location: Chicago, IL (Northwest)
Position: Controller
Industry: Frozen Food Manufacturing | Private Equity–Backed
Compensation:?$120,000–$140,000
Overview
The Controller is responsible for leading the company’s finance and accounting functions, including financial reporting, internal controls, tax, and insurance. This role ensures the organization’s fiscal operations are executed in accordance with GAAP and manufacturing industry best practices while partnering closely with the CEO and private equity ownership to support the company’s value creation plan.
As the senior finance leader on site, the Controller owns the books and records, leads continuous improvement of accounting processes, and provides financial insight to support operational and strategic decision-making. The Controller reports directly to the CEO and works closely with the private equity ownership group.
Key Responsibilities
- Own all accounting and financial operations, including general ledger, AP/AR, month-end close, financial reporting, tax, and insurance
- Lead GAAP-compliant financial reporting and ensure timely month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close
- Partner with the CEO and private equity owners on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and operational initiatives
- Oversee working capital, cash flow planning, debt compliance, and lender relationships
- Maintain and enforce strong internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures
- Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, banks, and insurance providers
- Lead and develop the accounting team and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
- Support board and investor reporting, including preparation of financial materials
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance; advanced degree a plus
- Ten years of progressively responsible financial leadership experience
- Prior experience in a manufacturing environment required
- Experience working with private equity partners and related banking concepts preferred
- Strong ERP experience; NetSuite preferred
- High integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a hands-on leadership role
Salary : $120,000 - $140,000