Lead Controller

JOB SUMMARY

The Lead Controller is responsible for the overall financial control, compliance, and accounting operations. This role ensures full US GAAP compliance, maintains a strong SOX control environment, oversees month-end close processes, and partners closely with Operations and Corporate Finance. The Lead Controller manages the Controlling team and plays a critical role in driving financial accuracy, operational insight, and continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment. This is a Hybrid role based in Elizabethtown, NC.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with US GAAP across both entities
• Implement, maintain, and enhance SOX internal controls
• Perform internal audits and coordinate external audit activities
• Perform and ensure accurate and timely month-end close procedures
• Prepare income tax information for corporate reporting
• Review balance sheet reconciliations and ensure integrity of financial data

Manufacturing & Cost Accounting

• Perform annual standard cost updates
• Conduct physical inventory variance analysis and inventory controls oversight
• Oversee cost accounting processes in a manufacturing environment
• Analyze variances and provide financial insight to Operations leadership

Operational & Accounting Oversight

• Oversee fixed asset accounting and capital expenditure controls
• Manage intercompany accounting and reconciliations
• Review credit card transactions and perform related expenditure controls
• Concur Expense system user administration
• Manage JDE and purchase order approval limits and governance
• Perform ad hoc analysis requests related to expenses, balance sheet movements, etc.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop two direct reports, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth
• Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and ensure succession planning for key roles
• Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Supply Chain, and Corporate Finance
• “Manage upwards” by seeking to understand leadership needs, communicating risks and insights early, and effectively supporting decision-making through clear, data-driven recommendations

Technical Accounting & Advisory

• Research and interpret complex accounting issues
• Lead the adoption and documentation of new accounting standards, policies, and procedures
• Provide expertise on revenue recognition, fixed asset management and other topics

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Required

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting
• Big 4 public accounting audit background
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP
• Understanding of cost accounting principles
• Advanced Excel proficiency
• Experience with global ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, JDE)
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skill
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to drive process improvement and lead change in a complex, matrixed organization
• High integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to continuous improvement

Preferred

• CPA or equivalent certification
• Manufacturing industry experience
• #LI-RB1