Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting Manager

We are representing a well-established, privately held manufacturing company in Central Orange County seeking an experienced Controller to lead its accounting and financial operations.

This is a high-visibility leadership role within a stable, profitable organization with long-tenured executive leadership. The position is open due to a planned retirement, creating a true succession opportunity for the right individual.

The Controller will oversee all accounting operations, financial reporting, cost accounting, and internal controls within a multi-site manufacturing environment. This individual will partner closely with executive leadership and operations to ensure accurate reporting, financial integrity, and process discipline across the organization.

The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on, with strong technical accounting expertise and the ability to lead a small team.

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close in accordance with GAAP
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations
• Oversee manufacturing cost accounting, including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory valuation, and WIP
• Manage external audits and maintain strong internal controls
• Support annual budgeting and forecasting processes
• Analyze financial performance and provide insights to leadership
• Oversee inventory accounting, cycle counts, and ERP-related financial processes
• Lead and develop the accounting team (3–5 direct reports)

• CPA required
• Public accounting experience required (Big 4 or national firm strongly preferred)
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
• Experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, internal controls, and cost accounting
• Prior leadership experience managing accounting staff
• Advanced Excel skills and ERP experience

• Technically strong and detail-oriented
• Comfortable operating in a hands-on manufacturing environment
• Able to communicate effectively with both finance and operations teams
• Interested in a long‑term leadership opportunity within a stable organization

If you are a CPA with public accounting experience and manufacturing exposure looking for a leadership role in Central OC, we welcome a confidential conversation.