Controller | Manistee, MI

Salary Range: $124,000 - $173,000 depending on experience

Are you a meticulous professional with a passion for financial leadership and driving business performance? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We are collaborating with companies in Manistee seeking experienced Controllers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Manistee that are seeking skilled Controllers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the accounting function, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP.
• Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the integrity of financial data.
• Manage the annual budgeting and forecasting processes, providing detailed financial analysis and variance explanations.
• Lead the year-end audit process, acting as the primary liaison with external auditors.
• Provide strategic financial insights and recommendations to senior management to support business decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Monitor and analyze inventory costs, production variances, and product profitability to optimize manufacturing operations.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local tax regulations and filings.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• CPA certification or actively pursuing.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in cost accounting, inventory valuation, and variance analysis.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
• Experience with ERP systems implementation and optimization.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with ERP system implementation or optimization
• Advanced Excel and data modeling skills (e.g., Power Query, Power Pivot)
• CPA or CMA certification
• Experience in a private equity-backed environment
• Familiarity with Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing principles

Job Titles That Should Apply

Controller, Financial Controller, VP of Finance, Director of Finance, Head of Finance, Senior Controller, Corporate Controller, Assistant Controller, Finance Director, Finance Manager

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.