Operational Controller

The Operational Controller for Imperial will be responsible for overseeing all accounting, financial reporting, and cost accounting activities related to manufacturing operations. This role ensures accurate product costing, inventory valuation, financial reporting, internal controls and manufacturing cost analytics while partnering with operations leadership to drive cost efficiency and profitability. The Operational Controller plays a key role in budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and supporting operational decision-making as a key operational business partner.Full TimeLocation: Greater St. Louis Area (Bourbon)What You’ll Be DoingFinancial Management & ReportingOversee month-end and year-end close for manufacturing operations, maintaining a high level of accuracy and compliance with US GAAPPrepare and review financial statements, management reports, and in-depth variance analysis to plan, forecast and prior yearPrepare clear and concise commentary for monthly operating results, not just reporting the numbers, but also the “what and why” behind performance trends and variancesEnsure accurate revenue recognition, cost allocation, and expense reportingProvide financial insights to support strategic and operational decisionsDrive Net Working Capital initiatives to optimize inventory, accounts receivable and accounts payable positionsOperational PartnershipProvide leadership and direction to the operational business partners, including the VP Operations, plant management, and supply chain teamProvide financial analysis related to pricing, production efficiency, and capital investmentsSupport continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiativesCost AccountingManage and maintain standard costing and product costing systemsAnalyze manufacturing variances (labor, material, overhead, scrap, yield)Monitor cost drivers and recommend cost reduction initiativesReview bill of material (BOM) and routing accuracyInventory ManagementEnsure accurate inventory valuation and reportingOversee cycle count and physical inventory processesInvestigate inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actionsMonitor slow-moving and obsolete inventoryBudgeting & ForecastingLead annual budgeting and periodic forecasting for manufacturing operationsPartner with operations to develop production cost projectionsTrack and analyze actual vs. budget performanceInternal Controls & ComplianceMaintain strong internal controls over financial reporting and inventoryEnsure compliance with GAAP and company policiesSupport external audits and internal audit activitiesSystems & Process ImprovementManage financial data within ERP systemsImprove reporting automation and data accuracyIdentify opportunities to streamline accounting and operational processesWhat We NeedBachelor’s degree (B.S./B.A.) or equivalent from a college or university in Accounting or Finance and a minimum of six years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. MBA or CPA is preferred.8+ years of accounting and/or finance experience, with 2+ years of experience in manufacturingExperience using an ERP system - NetSuite experience is strongly preferredExpert Excel user, with a strong understanding of databases, queries and reportsStrong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects with little or no supervision (expert)Strong leadership and mentoring skills with the proven ability to develop personnel (expert)Practical knowledge of Lean business practices (intermediate)Physical RequirementsAbility to sit or stand for extended periods of time while working at a computer or workstationAbility to use hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and keyboardsAbility to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via electronic communicationOccasional ability to lift and/or move up to 25 poundsAbility to move throughout the facility, including walking, bending, and reaching as neededVisual acuity sufficient to read screens, documents, and reportsReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.BenefitsFree Hats401K with company matchHealth care (medical, dental, vision)Employee Assistance ProgramPTO (vacation, personal days, 9 company holidays)Opportunities for continuing educationEmployee product discountsTo apply, please click “apply” or reach out for additional information! We look forward to meeting with you.Company Overview Since 1916, Imperial has epitomized luxury, authenticity, and individuality by crafting premium headwear, apparel, and accessories with an unwavering dedication to quality and detail. Our team is committed to excellence–serving customers in golf, retail, corporate, and destination/leisure markets. We are available in the top resorts, golf courses, national sporting events, and retail locations nationwide. As the #1 headwear brand* in the golf market and an entrusted licensing partner for companies including Nike, Adidas, and Peter Millar–Imperial is leading the industry in decorative apparel.Voted by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported by Golf DatatechOur Mission: We create consumer products that enrich and embellish people’s lives. Our responsiveness, continuous improvement, and empowerment of all team members are the pillars of our success.Imperial is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We are committed to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds.,