Controller

We are looking for a detail-oriented, engaging people manager to fill the full-time, regular position of Controller at the West Chester office. This position manages the accounting department (including LMA - leading, managing and holding direct reports accountable) ensuring accurate, timely financial reporting that supports strategic decision-making for the company. This role safeguards company assets through robust internal controls, compliance and risk management while partnering with senior leadership to drive operational efficiency and profitability. The Controller oversees accounting operations, budgeting, audits, and financial analysis, and fosters a high-performing team aligned with company values.

       Position Details:

• Provides clear direction to direct reports, and creates opportunities for them to succeed
• Provides the necessary tools to direct reports, including training, technology, personal time, and attention
• Delegates work to direct reports and develops their skillsets to help them grow
• Provides clear expectations regarding measurables, Core Values, roles & responsibilities
• Communicates through active listening in a two-way dialogue with direct reports
• Participates in weekly and monthly meetings as a department
• Performs quarterly check-in conversations with direct reports and annual performance reviews
• Administers training for job duties and company SOPs as required
• Directs and supervises accounts receivable manager to ensure timely collection of A/R, application of payments and credit granting
• Executes credit decisions in accordance with the company credit policy and provides input to the CFO to modify the policy to mitigate unnecessary risk exposure
• Interacts and negotiates with customers for escalated credit and collections issues
• Recommends best practices related to collection activity and record-keeping
• Oversees the selection of credit report and collection agencies
• Directs and supervises accounts payable manager to ensure timely payments to suppliers while optimizing use of cash
• Oversees proper recording of new fixed asset purchases and disposals
• Directs and supervises team of staff accountants responsible for the monthly closing of the general ledger including monthly balance sheet reconciliation and preparation of financial statements within 3-4 business days in compliance with GAAP.
• Performs statistical analyses to determine trends, estimates, significant changes, and writes narrative reports explaining findings
• Maintains and enforces internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure data integrity.
• Reviews, investigates, and corrects errors and inconsistencies in financial entries, documents, and reports
• Responsible for the accuracy of inventory valuation; investigates to explain inventory adjustments and makes recommendations for procure-to-pay process improvements
• Adheres to enterprise accounting policies and procedures
• Responds to CFO with accurate and timely reports to facilitate enterprise financial reporting needs
• Assists with ERP system troubleshooting and upgrades
• Keeps CFO advised regularly on routine accounting matters
• Leads cross-functional initiatives to support strategic objectives
• Prepares and monitors annual budgets; analyzes variances and provides actionable insights to management.
• Conducts trend analysis and develops recommendations for process and cost improvements.
• Works closely with the CFO and executive team to align financial strategy with business objectives, support growth initiatives, and optimize profitability.
• Oversees annual tax package preparation, sales tax filings, and 1099 reporting
• Responsible for the accurate preparation of information schedules for annual review and commercial insurance audits
• Maintains proficiency in ERP systems and oversees system upgrades and troubleshooting
• Identifies and implements process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy across accounting operations.

Education/Experience

• Knowledge and skills at a level normally acquired through the completion of a bachelor’s degree in an Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5-10 years of progressive accounting leadership experience in Accounting, with a strong background in inventory valuation and A/R management
• Experience in food distribution or related industries preferred

Licenses/Credentials/Certifications

• CPA or MBA preferred

Specialized Knowledge/Skills/Abilities 

• Advanced knowledge of GAAP, internal controls, and financial reporting
• Calm, organized, patient, diplomatic, and confident demeanor in working with staff, management, and customers
• Advanced attention to detail and accuracy in all work
• Advanced ability to prioritize own wide-ranging workload and work independently
• Advanced ability to communicate both verbally and in writing to a wide range of audiences – primarily staff, management, and customers
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint
• Advanced ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and customers
• Proven management and/or relationship building experience
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Proficient in analytical and problem-solving techniques
• Strong leadership and management skills in accordance with Skidmore Core Values
• Self-driven, motivated individual with an active continuous improvement approach
• Advanced knowledge of ERP systems; experience in Sage X3 preferred

Working Hours/Environment

• Office hours are 40 per week – Monday – Friday, 8:00 – 5:00; regularly requires additional hours (50 hrs on average), including evening and weekends depending on business needs
• Work typically performed in an indoor office setting

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive and the employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor and other management as required.