Business Unit Controller

Controller – Manufacturing PortfolioCompany OverviewOur client is a privately held investment group focused on acquiring, operating, and expanding established lower-middle-market manufacturing and distribution businesses throughout the United States.The investment group is seeking a hands-on Controller to oversee accounting and financial operations across multiple portfolio companies. This position offers significant autonomy, direct interaction with business Presidents, and the opportunity to influence financial performance across a growing portfolio of industrial businesses.Location, Compensation & BenefitsBatavia, IL (fully on-site)$$: 130k-150k base + 20% target bonusOpportunity to co-invest in future acquisitionsWhy This OpportunityTake ownership of accounting and financial reporting across multiple operating businessesWork directly with senior business leadership on financial performance and strategic initiativesServe as a key financial resource for operational decision-makingGain exposure to a variety of manufacturing and industrial business environmentsCombine hands-on accounting responsibilities with financial planning, analysis, and operational supportInfluence profitability through cost analysis, working capital improvements, and operational efficienciesWork in an entrepreneurial environment with meaningful autonomy and accountabilityHelp strengthen financial reporting processes, accounting procedures, and internal controlsContribute to budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance managementParticipate in projects focused on operational improvements and continued business growthBuild strong relationships with business leaders and other internal stakeholdersOpportunity to make a measurable impact on financial and operational resultsPosition OverviewThe Controller will oversee accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis for multiple operating businesses.Working closely with senior leadership, this individual will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, managing recurring accounting processes, and providing financial insights that support operational performance and business decisions.The position requires a professional who is comfortable working independently, navigating multiple business environments, and balancing detailed accounting responsibilities with broader financial management initiatives.The ideal candidate brings strong manufacturing accounting experience, a practical understanding of business operations, and the ability to translate financial information into actionable recommendations.Key ResponsibilitiesOversee accounting and financial reporting activities across assigned operating businessesManage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reportingPrepare and review financial statements, journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedulesMaintain accurate general ledger records and ensure compliance with applicable accounting standardsDevelop consistent financial reporting packages for management and other internal stakeholdersAnalyze financial results and explain significant variances against budgets, forecasts, and prior periodsPartner with business leadership to develop annual operating budgets and periodic forecastsProvide financial analysis supporting profitability, cost management, and operational decision-makingEvaluate manufacturing costs, inventory activity, operating expenses, and other financial performance driversMonitor cash flow, liquidity requirements, and working capital trendsIdentify opportunities to improve cash conversion and overall financial efficiencyMaintain oversight of accounts payable, accounts receivable, and related financial processesSupport payroll accounting, commission calculations, and other recurring financial activities as neededDevelop and monitor financial performance metrics to support business planningAssist leadership with evaluating spending decisions, operating initiatives, and growth opportunitiesQualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant professional experienceApproximately 5–10 years of progressive accounting experienceStrong background in manufacturing accounting, cost accounting, or accounting within an industrial operating environmentCPA designation preferredDemonstrated ability to independently manage accounting and financial reporting responsibilitiesExperience overseeing monthly close processes, journal entries, account reconciliations, and general ledger reportingStrong understanding of manufacturing costs, inventory accounting, and operational financial performanceExperience developing budgets, preparing forecasts, and evaluating financial resultsKnowledge of cash management, working capital, and financial performance measurement