Accounting Manager

Position Overview:We are partnering with an established global manufacturing organization to identify an experienced Accounting Manager for its Franklin, Wisconsin facility.This is a hands-on accounting leadership opportunity for someone who enjoys working closely with manufacturing operations, improving financial processes, and translating financial information into actionable business insights.The Accounting Manager will oversee key accounting functions, including cost accounting, inventory management, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls. This individual will partner closely with plant leadership and cross-functional teams to support operational performance, financial accuracy, and continuous improvement initiatives.The ideal candidate brings a strong manufacturing accounting background, a solid understanding of cost structures and operational financial drivers, and the ability to balance day-to-day accounting responsibilities with broader business objectives.Key ResponsibilitiesAccounting & Financial ReportingOversee daily accounting activities, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with GAAP and company policies.Manage month-end and year-end closing activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, accruals, and financial statement preparation.Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and ensure compliance with established accounting procedures and internal controls.Support internal and external audits, including SOX compliance and documentation requirements.Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, improve reporting accuracy, and strengthen financial controls.Cost Accounting & Inventory ManagementManage manufacturing cost accounting activities, including standard costing, inventory valuation, and cost analysis.Analyze material, labor, and overhead variances to identify trends, operational inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.Partner with Operations, Supply Chain, and Engineering to evaluate manufacturing costs and support profitability initiatives.Monitor inventory accuracy, work-in-process (WIP), and related financial transactions.Support cost reduction initiatives and continuous improvement efforts throughout the facility.Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial AnalysisParticipate in the development of annual operating budgets, financial forecasts, and long-range financial plans.Analyze financial performance against budgets, forecasts, and historical results.Prepare and communicate financial reports, operational metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs).Provide financial insights and recommendations to support operational and strategic decision-making.Assist with capital expenditure analysis, cost-benefit evaluations, and financial modeling.Business Partnership & Continuous ImprovementServe as a trusted financial partner to manufacturing and operations leadership.Translate complex financial data into practical, actionable recommendations.Support lean manufacturing initiatives and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize costs.Collaborate across departments to improve financial visibility, accountability, and business performance.Help develop and enhance financial reporting tools, dashboards, and processes.Leadership & CollaborationProvide guidance, coaching, and support to accounting and finance team members.Promote accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement within the accounting function.Work collaboratively with corporate finance and other manufacturing locations to ensure consistent financial practices.Balance hands-on accounting responsibilities with process improvement and operational support.QualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.Progressive accounting or finance experience, preferably within a manufacturing environment.Strong understanding of manufacturing cost accounting, standard costing, inventory accounting, and variance analysis.Experience with financial reporting, general ledger accounting, month-end close, budgeting, and forecasting.Working knowledge of GAAP, internal controls, and financial compliance requirements.Experience working with ERP systems, preferably SAP.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.Ability to communicate financial information effectively to both financial and nonfinancial stakeholders.Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and maintain a high level of accuracy and confidentiality.PreferredPrevious accounting leadership or supervisory experience.Experience supporting a manufacturing plant or production environment.CPA, CMA, or MBA.Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and value stream accounting.Experience with SOX compliance and audit support.Advanced Excel skills and experience developing financial reports or KPI dashboards.Six Sigma or other continuous improvement training.What We're Looking ForBeyond technical accounting expertise, we're seeking someone who enjoys being actively involved in the business.The ideal candidate is a hands-on, collaborative accounting professional who is comfortable working with plant leadership, understanding manufacturing processes, and identifying opportunities to improve financial and operational performance.This individual should be equally comfortable working through detailed accounting issues, analyzing manufacturing variances, and partnering with operational leaders to solve business challenges.Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment, a continuous improvement mindset, and the ability to build credibility across the organization.Additional Information:This position is based on-site in Franklin, Wisconsin.Occasional travel may be required (approximately 10–15%).The role involves access to proprietary business, financial, and customer information requiring a high level of confidentiality.Range: $120K - $150K plus bonusEqual Opportunity EmploymentOur client is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.