Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting & Finance

We are seeking a hands-on Controller to lead day-to-day accounting operations, financial close processes, payroll administration, and core compliance functions. This role is critical to building scalable financial infrastructure in a growing PE‑backed sales and manufacturing business and will serve as a key partner to leadership in improving financial discipline, efficiency, and operational execution.

The Controller will take primary ownership of accounting and treasury processes, process payroll, and manage external audit coordination and lender compliance. This is a highly visible role suited for someone who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment, enjoys improving processes, and leverages technology and AI to reduce manual work while keeping the fundamentals strong.

This role offers high visibility and meaningful opportunity to grow alongside the business.

This position may be based in either Alexandria, Minnesota or Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
.

• Perform and review the monthly financial close process, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
• Maintain accuracy and integrity of the general ledger.
• Ensure timely and reliable financial reporting to leadership.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies and internal controls appropriate for a growing organization.
• Prepare and maintain supporting schedules for lender reporting and covenant compliance.

• Serve as primary internal point of contact for external auditors, tax advisors, and other outside partners.
• Prepare schedules, supporting documentation, and audit/tax deliverables.
• Support annual financial statement audit and other compliance requirements.
• Maintain documentation and processes that support strong financial governance.

• Oversee cash positioning, daily cash management, and short‑term forecasting.
• Manage accounts payable workflows and payment processes.
• Ensure strong controls around disbursements and banking activities.

• Execute payroll processing and associated reporting.
• Coordinate required employment and regulatory filings.
• Support safety and compliance administration for the manufacturing operation.

• Continuously improve accounting and administrative workflows to reduce manual effort.
• Leverage technology and AI tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Partner with leadership to simplify processes and strengthen operational discipline.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA preferred but not required).
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within a lean or growth-oriented business.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial close processes.
• Experience managing audits and working with external auditors.
• Hands‑on payroll and treasury experience preferred.
• Comfortable operating in a lean, fast‑moving environment.

• Built for a Senior Accountant or Assistant Controller ready to step into broader ownership and responsibility.
• Builder mindset: enjoys creating structure where it doesn’t yet exist.
• Highly accountable and detail-oriented without losing sight of the bigger picture.
• Comfortable wearing multiple hats and owning outcomes.
• Strong communicator who can work effectively across departments.
• Curious and open to using AI and modern tools to improve efficiency.
• Demonstrated history of taking ownership beyond defined job responsibilities and improving processes without being asked.

This position will play a key role in strengthening the company’s financial foundation, enabling leadership to focus on growth and strategic priorities while ensuring the business scales with discipline and control.

$100,000 – $115,000, depending on experience and qualifications.