We are looking for an experienced Controller to lead the accounting and finance function in Appleton, Wisconsin. This role will guide financial reporting, strengthen controls, oversee cash management, and provide insight that supports sound business decisions. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, deep accounting expertise, and a practical approach to improving processes, compliance, and overall financial performance.
Responsibilities:
- Direct the daily operations of the accounting and finance team, providing leadership, coaching, and clear accountability across core functions.
- Oversee general ledger activity, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, sales tax, treasury tasks, and tax-related planning to maintain accurate and efficient financial operations.
- Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual close cycles and ensure financial statements are prepared accurately and delivered on schedule.
- Build, refine, and monitor internal controls, accounting policies, and standard procedures to protect financial integrity and support compliance.
- Review financial results, cash flow trends, and key performance indicators, translating data into meaningful recommendations for senior leadership.
- Partner with internal stakeholders, including financial analysis resources, to improve budgeting, forecasting, and variance reporting.
- Lead coordination with external auditors, banking partners, and regulatory parties while addressing audit requests and follow-up actions.
- Monitor liquidity needs, banking activity, debt-related obligations, and covenant compliance to support stable treasury operations.
- Identify opportunities to streamline workflows, enhance systems usage, and implement process improvements that strengthen reporting and efficiency.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required.
- At least 5 years of experience in an accounting leadership or Controller-level position.
- Demonstrated success managing accounting teams and overseeing functions such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, general ledger, credit, and collections.
- Strong understanding of financial reporting, internal controls, compliance requirements, and audit coordination.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
- Experience working with accounting or ERP systems; NetSuite experience is preferred.
- Background in sales tax compliance is preferred.
- Proven ability to improve processes, apply technology effectively, and lead operational change within a finance organization.