Finance Controller

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a results-driven and collaborative Controller to lead the financial strategy and operations across North America, including the U.S. and Mexico. This director-level role is critical to ensuring financial integrity, operational efficiency, and strategic alignment across the Essex Brownell business unit.

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, this position will oversee general accounting,  accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), and cost accounting teams, with a focus on driving performance, compliance, and continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead regional finance strategy in partnership with the CFO and leadership team
• ERP/digital initiatives (QADA & OneStream)
• Oversee accounting, AP/AR, and cost accounting
• Manage financial reporting of US GAAP and IFRS
• Ensure accurate and timely close processes
• Partner with operations on cost accounting, inventory, and capital investments
• Drive cost control, margin improvement, and process efficiency
• Maintain internal controls and support audits
• Standardize financial practices across regions
• Support tax and treasury
• Lead and develop a multi-site finance team

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Strong financial and strategic leadership
• Expertise in manufacturing finance and cost accounting
• Ability to influence senior leaders and work cross-functionally
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to lead teams in a fast-paced environment

COMPUTER EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS:

• ERP systems experience (QADA, OneStream or similar)
• Advanced Excel and financial reporting tools
• Microsoft Office proficiency 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA/MBA preferred)
• 10+ years accounting experience; 5+ years in leadership
• Extensive experience with cost accounting methods and analysis
• Manufacturing and multi-country experience preferred
• Strong understanding of IFRS standards and financial reporting

SCOPE OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

· Accounting or equivalent degree, MBA preferred

· CPA certification required

· Minimum 10 years’ experience

· International business exposure is essential

· Previous Industrial or Manufacturing experience is also critical

· Must possess strong technical, analytical, valuation and communication skills. Exposure to financing, treasury, commodities and other complex monetary activities is also preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

· Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills

· Ability to understand and explain the company’s financial plan, long and short term

· Proven ability to develop relationships and establish credibility

· Ability to perform effectively in a team environment and work well with and through others

· Must have strong organizational skills, be detail oriented, a team player, and able to consistently meet or beat deadlines

· Proven ability to thrive in a fast paced environment; handle multiple tasks; prioritize responsibilities; provide outstanding customer service and handle high pressure situations

· Strong self starter and ability to work independently and with little supervision

· Proficient in spreadsheet and word processing programs

· Proven history of logical thinking/reasoning.

· Typical office environment up to 30% travel

COMPUTER EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS:

· Proficient with the Microsoft Suite of Products especially with Word, Excel and PowerPoint