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

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