Controller & Strategic Operations Lead in Cleveland, OH

Controller & Strategic Operations Lead Cleveland, OH BH Solutions Group is an Executive Recruiting and Consulting firm located in Cleveland, OH. We are assisting our client, a Cleveland-based global small business manufacturer of customized industrial fabrications and safety solutions, in their search for a high-impact Controller & Strategic Operations Lead to join their growing global business. This is not a traditional, siloed accounting role but designed for a hands-on financial leader who thrives in dynamic settings and wants to actively contribute to scaling the business. Due to the current accounting volume, this role extends beyond pure financial reporting. The ideal candidate will serve as both a financial expert and operational driver, partnering closely with leadership to improve processes, enhance profitability, and support long-term growth. This is an opportunity for someone who prefers being in the business - not just reporting on it. Responsibilities Responsibilities for the Controller & Strategic Operations Lead Manufacturing Operations & Job Costing Act as the financial bridge between the shop floor and financial performance Analyze and improve quoting processes to ensure accurate margins across: In-house manufactured goods Resale products Develop and maintain robust job costing methodologies Participate in physical inventory counts and develop a deep understanding of product flow Partner with operations to identify cost drivers, inefficiencies, and margin improvement opportunities Financial Leadership & Reporting Oversee core accounting functions including general ledger, month-end close, and financial reporting Provide actionable insights—not just reports—to support strategic decision-making Establish and refine financial controls, processes, and reporting frameworks Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management Operational Leadership & "Multiple Hats" Contribution Operate as a key member of the leadership team in a hands-on, small business environment Contribute across departments to improve efficiency and drive growth Take ownership of both strategic initiatives and day-to-day execution Adapt to shifting priorities and business needs with a solutions-oriented mindset ERP Implementation & Systems Leadership Serve as the financial lead and architect for an upcoming ERP implementation (6-12 month horizon) Partner with internal ERP project leadership to design and optimize financial modules Oversee configuration and setup of: Accounts Payable Inventory management Job costing systems Ensure financial data integrity, reporting accuracy, and scalability within the new system Drive process improvements through system capabilities HR Oversight & Organizational Support Lead or support key HR functions, including: Employee onboarding Benefits administration HR compliance and documentation Help professionalize and scale HR processes as the organization grows Assess and advise leadership on the appropriate level of HR oversight within the role Education/Experience Requirements for the Controller & Strategic Operations Lead Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance, MBA CPA License Minimum 5 years experience in accounting or finance roles Manufacturing experience is non-negotiable, with strong exposure to job costing environments Proven experience in ERP implementations or major system upgrades Strong understanding of inventory, cost accounting, and operational finance Assertive, confident decision-maker with the ability to guide leadership Demonstrated ability to solve problems—not just identify them High level of initiative with a strong bias for action Comfortable operating in an environment with evolving structure and priorities Willingness to be hands-on—from strategic planning to tactical execution A successfully implemented and optimized ERP system Improved visibility into margins, costing, and operational performance Streamlined financial and operational processes A stronger, more scalable foundation for company growth .

Contact:

Ben Basnett