Controller

FORREST Technical Coatings is a global leader in high-heat and other specialized products, recognized for technical excellence, innovation, and quality manufacturing. With a B2B focus and high-touch service, we aim to build lasting, ethical partnerships that drive mutual success. As a responsive, reliable, and profitable company, we maintain a long-term view, creating a great place to work where our team members thrive as valued contributors.

Founded in 1973, our one hundred person strong family owned business employs a strong balance sheet and continuous improvement mindset. The company is seeking a forward-thinking Controller to enhance financial strategy, efficiency, automation, and profitability.

About The Role

Reporting directly to the President, the Controller will play a key leadership role within the company, working collaboratively with the senior leadership team to drive financial strategy and operational efficiency. This position requires a tech-savvy, results-driven finance professional who can oversee the finance team while applying continuous improvement principles and technology to automate processes. The Controller will be instrumental in enhancing internal cost accounting, financial analysis, and process automation to support profitability and scalable growth.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to make a direct impact on strategy and execution with a growing and ambitious company.
• A family-owned culture with a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
• Work alongside a highly engaged senior leadership team driving the strategic vision.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Oversight & Accounting Operations

• Lead, mentor, and develop a skilled team of three in finance and accounting.
• Oversee and execute core accounting functions, including month-end close, reconciliations, tax filings, reporting, and compliance.
• Ensure timely and accurate financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance.
• Interface with outside CPA firm in connection with company’s audit and federal/state tax filings.
• Interface with banks & lenders for optimizing lines of credit, terms, fees, and other key attributes.
• Provide oversight, management, and administration of the company’s insurance programs.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, providing financial insights and strategic guidance.
• Work closely with operations, sales, and executive leadership to align financial strategies with business objectives.
• Foster a collaborative work environment, driving cross-functional initiatives to improve overall company performance.

Cost Accounting & Profitability Analysis

• Implement and refine internal cost accounting systems to track margins and profitability.
• Conduct financial analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and drive strategic decision-making.
• Provide insightful reporting to management on cost structures, pricing strategies, and operational efficiencies.

Automation & Process Improvement

• Leverage technology to streamline and automate financial processes, reducing manual work and increasing accuracy.
• Implement best practices in ERP utilization, reporting automation, and workflow improvements.
• Continuously seek opportunities to enhance efficiency and scalability within the finance function.

Strategic Growth Support

• Partner with leadership to support growth initiatives with financial planning and analysis.
• Develop financial models and forecasts to guide strategic decisions.
• Ensure financial systems and processes can scale with international expansion.

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or CMA preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Strong skills in cost accounting, financial analysis, and process automation.
• Experience with ERP systems and finance technology tools to drive efficiency.
• Proactive, hands-on leader with a continuous improvement and can-do mindset.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
• Experience in a manufacturing or technical industry is a plus.

If you are a tech-savvy finance leader who thrives on optimizing financial systems and processes, improving profitability, and collaborating with leadership to drive growth, we want to have a discussion!

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled