Controller

Our client is a well-established distribution company with a strong reputation in the Chicagoland market. As part of a planned leadership transition, the organization is seeking a hands-on Controller to serve as its senior financial leader and trusted business partner to ownership and management.This is a highly visible opportunity for someone who enjoys being both strategic and involved in the day-to-day details of the business. The Controller will oversee the accounting and finance function while helping strengthen financial reporting, processes, controls, systems, and overall financial visibility across the organization.Location: North/Northwest Chicago SuburbsKey ResponsibilitiesLead accounting, financial reporting, and month-end close activitiesPrepare and analyze financial statements and management reportingManage budgeting, forecasting, cash flow planning, and financial analysisOversee general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliations, and related accounting operationsMaintain and strengthen internal controls, policies, and financial processesPartner directly with ownership and operational leadership on business decisionsProvide financial insight related to profitability, pricing, investments, and operational initiativesIdentify opportunities to improve processes, reporting, systems, and workflow efficienciesManage relationships with external CPA firms and financial advisorsLead, mentor, and develop accounting and administrative team membersQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field8+ years of progressive accounting and finance experienceController, Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, or similar accounting leadership experienceStrong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and internal controlsExperience partnering directly with business owners, executives, or operational leadershipExperience within a privately held, family-owned, distribution, wholesale, manufacturing, food & beverage, or similar operating environment preferredCPA strongly preferredStrong Excel and financial systems capabilities