Controller - Traverse City Area

Controller | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $121,000 - $170,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for financial leadership and driving business performance? The Pivot Group is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Traverse City seeking experienced Controllers.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Traverse City region seeking Controllers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage the annual budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Lead cost accounting activities, including inventory valuation, COGS analysis, and variance reporting for manufacturing operations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain strong internal controls and financial policies.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax regulations, and other financial requirements.
• Manage cash flow, working capital, and treasury functions.
• Coordinate and manage external audits.
• Provide financial analysis and strategic insights to management.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA or CMA certification preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive experience as a Controller or Assistant Controller in a manufacturing environment.
• Deep understanding of cost accounting, inventory valuation, and GAAP specific to manufacturing operations.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Proven ability to manage financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to provide strategic financial insights.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience leading or significantly contributing to ERP system implementations or major upgrades.
• Proficiency in advanced data visualization and business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Demonstrated success in automating financial processes and improving operational efficiencies.
• Prior experience supporting M&A due diligence and integration activities.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Controller, Financial Controller, Corporate Controller, Assistant Controller, Director of Finance, Head of Finance, Accounting Manager, Finance Manager

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.