Assistant Controller

Position Summary The Assistant Controller is responsible for managing and improving the monthly financial close process for West Coast Berry Farms and Agrifrost. This role oversees core general ledger accounting functions, supports accurate and timely financial reporting, strengthens internal controls, and drives process improvements across accounting operations. The position will lead accounting activities related to inventory, payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable, prepaid expenses, fixed assets, and capitalized cultural costs. The Assistant Controller partners closely with Operations, Production, Inventory, Payroll, and Finance teams to ensure accurate financial reporting and operational alignment. This role is instrumental in building scalable accounting processes, enhancing documentation and controls, and achieving a best-in-class close process targeted at less than one week. Key Responsibilities Financial Close & Reporting Manage and coordinate the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes for West Coast Berry Farms and Agrifrost. Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial statements and supporting schedules for Controller review. Review journal entries, reconciliations, accruals, and account analyses for completeness and accuracy. Maintain detailed close calendars and monitor adherence to deadlines across accounting functions. Support external audit requests and year-end financial reporting requirements. Assist with preparation of management reporting and financial analysis as needed. General Ledger Accounting Oversee general ledger accounting activities across multiple entities and operational areas. Manage accounting and reconciliations for payroll, inventory, prepaid expenses, AR/AP, fixed assets, and capitalized cultural costs. Ensure proper accounting treatment and compliance with company policies and GAAP. Review balance sheet reconciliations and investigate variances or unusual transactions. Maintain accurate supporting documentation for all material account balances. Coordinate with operational departments to ensure timely and accurate transaction recording. Inventory & Agricultural Accounting Support inventory accounting processes related to fresh strawberry production and strawberry processing operations. Monitor inventory costing, adjustments, reserves, and reconciliations. Oversee accounting for capitalized cultural costs and ensure accurate tracking of agricultural production expenditures. Partner with Operations and Production teams to improve inventory reporting accuracy and visibility. Assist in developing and documenting standard costing and inventory control procedures where applicable. Process Improvement & Operational Excellence Lead initiatives to improve accounting workflows, close efficiency, and process standardization. Develop and maintain process documentation, accounting policies, and procedural guides. Identify opportunities for automation and system enhancements to improve reporting accuracy and efficiency. Drive initiatives aimed at achieving and sustaining a monthly close process of less than one week. Collaborate cross-functionally to improve data integrity, reporting consistency, and operational communication. Internal Controls & Compliance Design, implement, and maintain internal controls surrounding financial reporting and accounting operations. Strengthen reconciliation, approval, and review processes to ensure financial accuracy and compliance. Assist with risk assessments and identification of control gaps or process weaknesses. Support compliance with audit requirements and internal control standards. Ensure accounting procedures are consistently followed across departments and entities. Team Leadership & Collaboration Provide guidance, support, and mentorship to accounting staff as applicable. Partner closely with the Controller, FP&A, Operations, HR, and external auditors. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence. Participate in special projects, system implementations, and strategic finance initiatives as assigned. Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, or multi-entity environments. Strong understanding of general ledger accounting, month-end close, and financial statement preparation. Experience with inventory accounting and cost accounting concepts. Knowledge of GAAP and internal control frameworks. Advanced Excel skills and experience with ERP systems. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities. Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Preferred Qualifications CPA designation preferred. Experience in agricultural accounting or food manufacturing environments preferred. Experience improving accounting close timelines and implementing process improvements. Familiarity with ERP implementations, reporting tools, and accounting automation initiatives. Experience managing or mentoring accounting staff preferred . Core Competencies Financial and operational acumen Process improvement mindset Strong leadership and accountability Analytical problem-solving Attention to detail and accuracy Effective communication and collaboration Time management and organizational skills Integrity and confidentiality Success Measures Accurate and timely monthly financial close Achievement and maintenance of a sub-7-day close process Strong financial statement accuracy and audit readiness Improved accounting process efficiency and documentation Effective internal controls and reconciliation management High-quality collaboration with operational and finance teams Timely resolution of accounting issues and variances

Pay:

$115,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Disability insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person