Controller - Join Robert Half in Postville, Iowa

Robert Half is proud to partner with a thriving manufacturing company in Northeast Iowa to find an exceptional Controller for their Postville, IA location. This pivotal role offers the chance to lead financial operations, drive strategic initiatives, and make a tangible impact on a growing organization. With a competitive salary context of $140,000, this position is ideal for seasoned accounting professionals seeking leadership opportunities in the manufacturing sector. Postville, known as the 'Turkey Capital of the World,' provides a welcoming community with a low cost of living, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the scenic Driftless Region.

About the Role

As Controller, you will serve as the financial guardian of multiple manufacturing locations, overseeing all accounting functions while leading a small team of accounting professionals. This hands-on leadership position involves managing the month-end close, implementing advanced costing systems, and providing critical insights that influence company-wide decisions. Reporting directly to senior leadership, you'll play a key role in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning, ensuring financial accuracy and compliance in a dynamic manufacturing environment. This is more than just a numbers job—it's about partnering with operations to optimize inventory, control costs, and fuel sustainable growth. Perfect for CPAs or finance veterans with manufacturing experience, this role offers stability, professional growth, and the chance to shape the financial future of an established Iowa manufacturer.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day impact will include:

• Directing the month-end close process across multiple locations, delivering timely and accurate financial reports to support decision-making.
• Implementing and maintaining robust standard costing systems to enhance inventory management and profitability analysis.
• Auditing inventory records meticulously to ensure compliance, accuracy, and optimal stock levels in a manufacturing setting.
• Performing in-depth financial variance analysis, identifying trends and delivering actionable recommendations to improve operational performance.
• Collaborating closely on annual budgeting and rolling forecasting processes that align with the company's strategic objectives.
• Contributing to high-level strategic planning sessions, providing financial expertise for long-term growth initiatives.
• Leading and mentoring a team of two accounting professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• Continuously developing and refining financial processes, leveraging technology to boost efficiency and reduce errors.

These responsibilities demand a proactive leader who thrives in manufacturing finance, combining technical expertise with strategic vision.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this Controller position, candidates should possess:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's or MBA preferred).
• 8+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, with at least 5 years in manufacturing or cost accounting.
• CPA certification or active pursuit strongly preferred; CMA or equivalent also valued.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing accounting teams and cross-functional projects.
• Deep expertise in GAAP, financial reporting, standard costing, and inventory control systems.
• Proficiency in ERP software (SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar) and advanced Microsoft Excel for financial modeling.
• Strong analytical mindset with proven ability to translate complex data into business insights.
• Excellent communication skills for presenting to executives and collaborating with operations teams.
• Experience with multi-location financial oversight and compliance in regulated industries.

Robert Half prioritizes candidates who bring manufacturing-specific knowledge and a track record of process improvement.

Why Join Us

Partnering with Robert Half means accessing premier opportunities at top employers. This Controller role offers a salary up to $140,000, comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, PTO, and professional development support. Enjoy Iowa's affordable lifestyle in Postville, with relocation assistance available. Advance your career in a stable manufacturing firm committed to growth, where your financial leadership directly impacts success. Apply through Robert Half today—we connect top talent with rewarding careers. Keywords: Controller jobs Postville IA, manufacturing accounting, finance leadership Iowa, CPA opportunities Northeast Iowa, standard costing careers. (Word count: 812)