Divisional Controller - Des Plaines, ILJob Type: Full-Time
Work Setting: On-Site (with some travel)
Industry: Manufacturing - Capital Equipment
The OpportunityThis isn't your standard Controller role-it's a chance to step into the financial cockpit of a $100M+ manufacturing division. Based near Des Plaines, IL, you'll be working shoulder-to-shoulder with divisional leadership and directly reporting to the Division President. This is a high-impact position for a finance leader who thrives in complex, hands-on environments and wants to be part of something transformational.
As part of a highly visible business unit, you'll serve as a trusted advisor, strategic operator, and team leader-someone who knows how to anchor the day-to-day while keeping the long view in focus.
Your RoleYou won't be buried in spreadsheets all day. You'll be:
- Owning the financials for a capital equipment manufacturing brand
- Coordinating MWW pass-through operations and managing multiple cost centers
- Leading a professional team in accounting and finance, with hands-on engagement
- Driving accounting excellence, with a focus on cost accounting, ERP integrity, and timely reporting
- Managing budgets, including bad debt reserves and warranty provisioning
- Representing the division in audits and monthly executive reviews
Being highly adaptable will be key. The business environment is active, fast-paced, and evolving. You'll need to remain composed, accurate, and strategic through periods of transformation.
Key Responsibilities- Lead full-scope accounting and finance operations across sites
- Oversee P&L, budgeting, forecasting, and job costing (including WIP and POC accounting)
- Act as a strategic advisor to the Division President and other business leaders
- Execute ERP and system integration initiatives
- Ensure compliance with GAAP and internal controls
- Drive automation and streamline processes to improve efficiency and accuracy
- Present financials in executive and board-level discussions
What You Bring- 7-10 years of experience in accounting/finance, with 3+ years in a leadership role
- A capital equipment manufacturing background (essential)
- Strong knowledge of POC accounting, job cost systems, and operational finance along with Public Traded and Global accounting experience.
- ERP fluency
- B.A. in Accounting required; MBA, CPA, or CMA preferred but not required
- Experience working in nimble, hands-on settings (not overly structured or heavily resourced environments)
- Ability to lead, manage, and mentor while also rolling up your sleeves
- An even keel in periods of high change-someone who brings calm, structure, and forward motion
Cultural Fit- You take pride in your team and their development, but you lead from the front-not from a corner office.
- You don't need titles to lead. You do what needs to be done, and you do it well.
- You respect structure, but you know transformation takes grit and flexibility.
- You view audits and accountability as opportunities, not just obligations.
