Controller

Position Overview:

Our client, an established manufacturing company, is seeking a results-oriented and hands-on Controller to lead the company’s accounting and financial reporting functions while serving as a key business partner to operations and executive leadership. The Controller will be responsible for financial stewardship, cost accounting, budgeting and forecasting, internal controls, cash flow management, and performance analysis within a manufacturing environment.

This role requires a strong understanding of standard costing, inventory management, manufacturing operations, and financial planning. The successful candidate will provide timely and accurate financial information that supports strategic decision-making and drives profitability, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Leadership & Reporting

• Lead all accounting and financial reporting activities, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes and establish best practices to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide meaningful financial analysis and reporting to senior leadership, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities.

Cost Accounting & Manufacturing Finance

• Analyze manufacturing variances, labor efficiencies, material usage, inventory levels, and production performance.
• Partner with operations leadership to identify cost reduction opportunities and improve plant profitability.
• Monitor inventory valuation processes and ensure accurate accounting for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Business Planning

• Lead the annual budgeting process and periodic forecasting activities.
• Monitor financial performance against budget and provide actionable recommendations.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Maintain and strengthen internal control systems to safeguard company assets and minimize financial risk.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, government requirements, and company policies.
• Coordinate annual external audits and support regulatory reporting requirements.
• Oversee corporate insurance, risk management, and financial compliance activities.

Cash Flow & Working Capital Management

• Monitor cash flow, liquidity, and working capital performance.
• Oversee accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory, and cash management processes.
• Provide recommendations to optimize cash flow and improve working capital efficiency.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Establish departmental objectives and performance metrics.
• Promote collaboration between finance and operational departments.

Tax Management & Compliance

• Oversee all corporate tax compliance activities, including preparation, review, and coordination of corporate income tax filings with external tax advisors.
• Ensure timely and accurate filing of indirect taxes, including HST/GST, payroll taxes, and other statutory remittances.
• Manage tax audits and government inquiries with external advisors and regulatory authorities.
• Monitor changes in tax legislation and assess the financial and operational impact on the organization.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related discipline.
• CPA designation required.

Experience

• 5–10 years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including leadership responsibility.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment with standard costing, inventory accounting, and financial analysis would be an asset.
• Budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes experience.
• Experience working with ERP systems, preferably in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience managing corporate income tax, indirect tax (HST/GST), payroll tax compliance, and annual tax reporting requirements.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong business acumen and understanding of manufacturing operations.
• Advanced Excel and financial systems proficiency.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proven leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational excellence.
• Strong understanding of Canadian corporate taxation, HST/GST regulations, payroll taxes, and financial statement tax provisions.
• Knowledge of U.S. sales tax, U.S. corporate tax, customs duties, or cross-border taxation would be considered an asset.

Salary: $85,000 – $105,000 CAD per year