We are running a confidential search for a small but growing privately-held company based in St. Louis driven by competition and committed to long-term success. As the company expands, they are seeking a highly motivated and experienced A-Player Controller to take ownership of their accounting and financial reporting functions. This is a unique opportunity to join a close-knit team, influence strategic decision-making, and grow with the company.

Position Summary

The Controller will oversee all company-wide accounting and financial reporting duties, manage a team of two, and report directly to the President. This is a hybrid role with flexible scheduling, designed for a self-starter who enjoys both routine and special projects and thrives in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Core Accounting – Oversee GL, AP, AR, payroll, and reconciliations; close monthly books within 15 days of month-end
• Cash Flow & Liquidity – Manage daily cash activities and ensure the business remains wellpositioned to meet its obligations
• Internal Controls – Maintain and enforce practical, effective financial policies that safeguard assets and ensure accuracy
• Budgeting & Forecasting – Lead the budgeting process, manage reforecasts, and analyze variances with clarity Reporting & Analysis – Deliver accurate, GAAP-compliant financial statements and performance insights to leadership, board, and lenders
• Team Leadership – Manage and mentor a small accounting team (2 direct reports); drive accountability and growth Audit & Compliance – Coordinate with auditors and advisors; ensure compliance with tax, accounting, and loan requirements
• Cross-Functional Partnership – Collaborate with operations and supply chain to monitor margins, costs, and inventory
• ERP & Process Improvement – Pull insights from the ERP system and identify ways to improve accuracy and reporting speed Payroll & Benefits – Oversee payroll execution and assist in HR benefits administration via ADP
• Special Projects – Support system upgrades, EOS implementation, and other operational improvement initiatives
• Critical Outcomes:
• Timely Financials – Close books and deliver accurate financials within 15 days of month-end
• Healthy Cash Position – Ensure sufficient cash levels for daily and strategic business needsReceivables Health – Maintain AR with >90% current within 30 days
• GAAP Compliance – Maintain well-documented, audit-ready, GAAP-based financials
• Strong Margins – Support cost management to maintain or improve historical margin levels
• Strategic Input – Deliver insights and financial support to help the team execute on long-term vision and value creation
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or graduate degree in accounting
• CPA is a plus but not required
• Minimum five years of work experience in accounting related field
• Manufacturing and distribution experience preferred but not required
• Detail-Oriented – You’re fanatical about accuracy and thorough documentation
• GAAP Knowledgeable – Strong understanding of accounting principles and reporting standards
• Clear Communicator – Able to translate numbers into actionable insight for cross-functional teams
• Relationship Builder – Skilled at maintaining strong relationships with auditors, lenders, and internal stakeholders
• ERP Savvy – Comfortable navigating ERP platforms (Microsoft Dynamics (GP) preferred but not required); able to pull data and analyze at a detailed level
• Inventory Fluent – Understands inventory processes and cost accounting in a manufacturing or distribution environment
• Organized & Reliable – Able to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced, small business setting
• Practical Leader – Hands-on, steady, and willing to lead with or without a playbook
• Collaborative Contributor – Active participant in senior leadership meetings and EOS processes