About the Controller Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is proud to partner with an innovative manufacturing company expanding its US footprint to present an exceptional Contract-to-Hire Controller opportunity in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This pivotal role supports the launch and rapid growth of a new manufacturing operation for a globally headquartered company. As Controller, you'll be the architect of the financial foundation, establishing robust controls, policies, and reporting systems from day one. This hands-on leadership position demands deep manufacturing and cost accounting expertise, proven SAP ERP experience, and fluency in Chinese to bridge US operations with international headquarters.

Working cross-functionally with plant managers, operations leaders, and executive teams across time zones, you'll drive financial excellence while contributing to operational success. This is more than accounting—it's strategic partnership in building a world-class manufacturing entity. With Milwaukee's thriving manufacturing ecosystem and strategic Midwest location, this role offers unparalleled growth potential for seasoned finance professionals passionate about manufacturing.

Why This Role Stands Out

This position combines technical mastery with entrepreneurial impact. You'll shape financial processes for a greenfield operation, implement cutting-edge cost accounting systems, and become the trusted advisor to both US plant leadership and overseas executives. Fluency in Chinese positions you as the critical communication bridge, ensuring alignment between global strategy and local execution. Join at the ground level and grow with the business.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Operations & Close Management

Take full ownership of all US entity accounting and finance functions. Design and lead efficient monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes that deliver accurate, timely financials. Ensure 100% compliance with US GAAP while adapting to parent company standards. Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors, tax advisors, and local service providers, streamlining compliance and minimizing risk.

Advanced Manufacturing & Cost Accounting

Build sophisticated cost accounting frameworks including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory valuation, and overhead absorption methodologies. Collaborate intimately with production teams to implement real-time inventory controls, production reporting, and margin analytics. Develop actionable KPIs and executive dashboards that empower data-driven decisions across operations and finance.

Strategic Business Partnership

Act as the essential financial liaison between Milwaukee operations and international headquarters. Leverage your bilingual Chinese/English fluency to facilitate seamless communication with senior leadership. Provide strategic insights on cost optimization, working capital management, and profitability enhancement to support aggressive growth objectives.

Required Qualifications

Success demands proven expertise and cultural adaptability:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance (Master's/CPA strongly preferred)
• 8-12+ years progressive manufacturing accounting experience
• Demonstrated SAP ERP proficiency in manufacturing environments
• Advanced manufacturing cost accounting expertise (standard costing, variances, inventory)
• Native/fluency-level Mandarin Chinese AND professional English proficiency
• Experience building financial infrastructure for new US operations
• US GAAP mastery with international reporting experience
• Proven cross-functional leadership and international collaboration

Candidates must thrive in dynamic, startup-like environments while maintaining enterprise-level controls.

Why Join Us Through Robert Half

This Contract-to-Hire Controller role offers immediate impact with long-term stability. Robert Half provides white-glove support throughout placement, plus access to our exclusive network of manufacturing finance opportunities. Benefit from competitive compensation ($140K-$170K range), comprehensive benefits, performance bonuses, and genuine career advancement as the operation scales.

Be part of Milwaukee's manufacturing renaissance while gaining invaluable international exposure. Our client offers a collaborative culture valuing expertise, initiative, and results. With relocation support and flexible arrangements post-ramp-up, this is your chance to shape the future of US manufacturing excellence. Apply today through Robert Half—your strategic partner in finance career advancement.