Plant Controller

Plant Controller (Multi-Site)Location: Lincolnshire, IL or Chicago, IL (Hybrid – Onsite 3+ days/week)OverviewWe are seeking a Plant Controller to provide financial leadership across two manufacturing sites in the Chicago area. This role will serve as a trusted finance business partner to site and corporate leadership, driving manufacturing cost efficiency, margin expansion, revenue growth, and working capital optimization.Reporting to the Finance Director with a dotted-line relationship to operations leadership, this is a high-impact, hands-on role for a finance leader who brings a strong blend of accounting, analytics, and operational partnership. The ideal candidate is comfortable rolling up their sleeves while also thinking strategically to elevate reporting, streamline processes, and influence decision-making at the plant and enterprise level.This position offers exposure and impact beyond a traditional plant controller role and is well-suited for someone who thrives in a dynamic manufacturing environment and enjoys solving complex, cross-functional challenges.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Financial ReportingDeliver insightful financial analysis with clear context around results, trends, risks, and opportunitiesAnalyze manufacturing performance including productivity, scrap, purchase price variance (PPV), spending trends, and capital investmentsMonitor and optimize net working capital (inventory, A/R, A/P)Business PartnershipPartner closely with operations, sales, and leadership on tactical and strategic initiativesSupport customer and product profitability analysis, sales mix analytics, and new business quotingProvide financial support for growth initiatives, including integration activities as neededControls & ComplianceMaintain a strong control environment and proactively identify and resolve risks or gapsEnsure compliance with accounting policies and procedures, including revenue cut-off, reserves, and asset safeguardingSupport audits and internal control initiativesBudgeting & ForecastingLead accurate and timely forecasting for the P&L and Balance SheetIdentify risks and opportunities and support standard cost processesStakeholder ManagementAct as a key liaison to internal teams (FP&A, Corporate Accounting, AP, AR) and external partners (vendors, customers)Systems & Process ImprovementDrive ERP enhancements, automation, and reporting improvementsDevelop dashboards and tools to improve visibility, efficiency, and decision-makingQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related business field7+ years of progressive experience, ideally in a manufacturing environmentStrong background in cost accounting and manufacturing variance analysis5+ years of experience with ERP financial modules (e.g., JD Edwards, Oracle, SAP; IQMS preferred)Preferred Skills & CompetenciesMBA, CPA, CMA, or CFA strongly preferredExperience supporting SOX compliance and audit engagementsStrong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insightsProactive problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindsetCollaborative leader with the ability to influence across functionsExcellent time management and prioritization skillsAdvanced Excel skills; experience with HFM, data warehouses (e.g., Qlik), and reporting tools a plusWork Arrangement & TravelOnsite presence required 3+ days per weekLess than 10% travelCompensation & BenefitsThis organization offers a competitive compensation package along with comprehensive benefits designed to support employee well-being and long-term growth. Benefits include health and wellness programs, retirement savings with employer contributions, paid time off, and additional incentives aligned with company performance and ownership mindset.