Controller

Job Description The Newcastle Search Group has been retained to exclusively assist an established, growing mid-market distributor in Bolingbrook with the hiring of a Controller. Newly created to support significant organic and inorganic growth for the business, the Controller will report directly to the Chief Financial Officer. The hiring company is operating via a mainly remote work schedule as the Controller will need to be present in Bolingbrook no less than twice per month. The hiring company is only considering local candidates currently and relocation assistance is not available. Summary of Responsibilities Oversee all core accounting operations, including monthly close, financial statement preparation, and maintenance of accurate, timely financial records. Enable the CFO to focus on strategic initiatives and broader business priorities by managing day-to-day accounting operations effectively. Provide detailed operational reporting and actionable financial insights to sales leaders, general managers, and other business stakeholders. Drive efficiency and continuous improvement across accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and operational accounting processes. Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team, evaluate staffing needs, optimize workflows, and raise overall performance standards. Implement process improvements and best practices that enhance accuracy, timeliness, and effectiveness of the accounting function. Serve as a strategic business partner, collaborating with cross-functional leaders to support operational and organizational goals. Oversee and process semi-monthly payroll through Paycor, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Act as the primary point of contact for KPMG on tax and audit matters, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of required information and maintaining strong external relationships. Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements. Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance from an accredited institution with a strong curriculum. No less than 10 years of total experience. No less than 5 years of experience with direct responsibility for managing and developing team members. Career stability with a track record of sustained tenure and progression within organizations. Experience in inventory-intensive environments. Demonstrated ability to streamline accounting operations, while implementing process improvements that increase efficiency and accuracy. Proven experience to partner effectively with sales, operations, and other business leaders to provide actionable financial insights and drive business decisions. Technically strong, with advanced skills in ERP systems, Excel, and financial reporting tools, capable of optimizing processes and measurable insights. Hands-on, collaborative management style and a leader who demonstrates humility and a willingness to engage directly in day-to-day operations when needed, thus leading by example. Strong business judgment and foresight, with the ability to proactively assess organizational needs and deliver solutions that support business objectives. Assertive and decisive in nature, with the ability to lead firmly and influence without alienating others. Demonstrates strong business judgment and the ability to navigate complex situations with practical, solutions-oriented thinking appropriate for a fast-moving, privately held company. Viewed as a trusted source of information, gaining credibility across functions by consistently delivering results and driving initiatives to completion.