Controller

Plant ControllerOur client is seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented Plant Controller to provide financial leadership for its Michigan manufacturing operations. The Plant Controller will serve as a key business partner to plant leadership, driving financial performance, operational efficiency, cost control, and strategic decision-making within a complex aerospace manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for all plant accounting activities, including cost accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, inventory control, capital expenditure analysis, and internal controls.The ideal candidate will possess strong manufacturing finance experience, a deep understanding of standard costing and operational metrics, and the ability to translate financial data into actionable business insights.Responsibilities:Lead all plant accounting and finance functions, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting.Partner with plant leadership to develop and execute strategies that improve profitability, productivity, and operational performance.Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes in accordance with corporate and GAAP requirements.Prepare plant budgets, forecasts, financial analyses, and long-range business plans.Analyze manufacturing costs, labor efficiencies, material usage, scrap, yield, and overhead spending to identify improvement opportunities.Maintain and enhance standard costing systems and procedures.Monitor inventory accuracy and valuation, supporting physical inventory and cycle count programs.Provide detailed variance analysis and communicate key drivers impacting financial results.Evaluate capital expenditure requests, investment opportunities, and return-on-investment analyses.Ensure compliance with SOX requirements, internal controls, company policies, and financial regulations.Lead the preparation of audits and support both internal and external audit activities.Develop plant performance metrics, KPIs, and dashboards to support operational decision-making.Mentor and develop accounting and finance personnel while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.Collaborate with operations, engineering, supply chain, quality, and human resources teams to achieve business objectives.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.7+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience within a manufacturing environment.3+ years of leadership experience in a Controller, Plant Controller, Cost Accounting Manager, or similar role.Strong knowledge of cost accounting, inventory accounting, standard costing, and financial analysis.Experience supporting manufacturing operations and partnering with plant leadership teams.Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.CPA, CMA, or MBA.Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement initiatives.Knowledge of SAP, Oracle, or other large-scale ERP systems.