Controller

Brandy Rice with The Forum Group PNW is seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting operations and strengthen financial performance at her well respected client in Eugene. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Controller will be responsible for financial accuracy, internal controls, process improvement, and providing financial insight that supports strategic decision-making.

The successful candidate will bring strong technical accounting expertise along with proven leadership ability. This individual will build and develop a high-performing team, establish clear expectations and accountability, and promote a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The Controller will also lead the adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to streamline workflows, enhance reporting, and improve departmental productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team, with clear performance expectations and opportunities for professional growth.
• Direct accounting operations, including month-end close, financial reporting, general ledger management, and account reconciliations.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements, cash flow forecasts, budgets, and key performance indicators to inform business decisions.
• Establish and maintain internal controls, financial policies, and procedures that ensure accuracy, compliance, and effective risk management.
• Manage cost accounting functions in a manufacturing environment, including inventory valuation, overhead allocation, and cost of goods sold.
• Collaborate with Operations and other departments to identify opportunities to improve financial and operational performance.
• Lead process improvement initiatives using automation, AI tools, and technology to increase efficiency.
• Evaluate and optimize ERP systems, accounting workflows, and reporting capabilities.
• Coordinate tax compliance, audits, and regulatory reporting with external partners.
• Ensure the department consistently delivers accurate, high-quality work within established deadlines.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
• Minimum of five years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership and team management.
• Thorough knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, internal controls, and cost accounting principles.
• Manufacturing accounting experience, including job costing, process costing, and inventory valuation methods.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial analysis, including work with large datasets.
• Experience with ERP systems and accounting process improvement.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop employees, manage performance, and build accountability.

Preferred Qualifications

• AI fluency and experience applying AI tools or automation to accounting and finance processes (strongly preferred).
• Multi-entity accounting experience.
• Familiarity with SQL and database reporting.