Controller | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $128,000 - $179,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented 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 advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids 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 multiple companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Controllers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, general ledger, and cost accounting.
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Develop and implement robust internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements, budgets, and forecasts to provide insights for strategic decision-making.
• Lead the annual budgeting process and provide ongoing variance analysis to department heads.
• Collaborate with external auditors during annual financial audits.
• Drive process improvements and automation within the finance department to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Manage cash flow and working capital to optimize liquidity and financial performance.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 7+ years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, with at least 3 years in a manufacturing environment
• CPA certification highly preferred
• Strong understanding of GAAP and cost accounting principles
• Proven experience with ERP systems implementation and optimization
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a high-performing finance team

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with an ERP implementation or major upgrade
• CPA or CMA certification
• Experience in a private equity-backed manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma certification

Job Titles That Should Apply

Controller, Financial Controller, VP Finance, Director of Finance, Head of Finance, Chief Accounting Officer, CAO, Corporate Controller, Assistant Controller, Financial Reporting 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.