Controller

A growing, founder-led manufacturing and distribution company in South Carolina is seeking a hands-on Controller to help build the financial infrastructure, reporting discipline, and operational processes needed to support continued growth. This is a newly created leadership role with significant visibility and opportunity to make a long-term impact on the business.The Controller will report directly to ownership and initially lead all accounting and finance operations, with future opportunity to expand into FP&A and strategic operational support.This role offers remote flexibility, though candidates must reside in South Carolina and be comfortable traveling to the company’s operations once a week. Essential Duties & FunctionsLead the monthly close process and improve the timeliness, accuracy, and reliability of financial reportingDrive the company’s transition from cash to accrual accounting and implement GAAP-aligned reporting processesDevelop and maintain accounting procedures, internal controls, close checklists, and supporting documentationPartner with external CPA firms and advisors on audit readiness, quality of earnings preparation, and financial process improvementsOversee inventory accounting, including WIP, costing, returns/core charges, freight analysis, and inventory-related reportingEstablish and enforce operational controls surrounding purchasing, vendor management, approvals, cash handling, and AR collectionsProvide financial insight and reporting to ownership to support business decision-making and scalabilityOversee payroll, benefits administration, workers’ compensation, employee compliance matters, and standard business agreementsManage and develop accounting support staff while helping build future FP&A capabilitiesParticipate in ERP/system evaluation, implementation, and integration initiatives, including accounting, inventory, warehouse management, and e-commerce systemsBuild strong cross-functional relationships across operations, warehouse, sales, and leadership teamsQualifications10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including leadership responsibility within a manufacturing, distribution, or product-based environmentCPA, CMA, or MBA preferred but not requiredPrior experience owning or leading an accounting/finance function as a Controller, Director of Finance, or similar roleHands-on experience converting financials from cash to accrual accounting and implementing structured financial reporting processesExperience preparing for audits, quality of earnings reviews, lender reporting, or similar financial diligence processesStrong understanding of inventory accounting, costing, WIP, and operational finance conceptsAdvanced Excel skills and experience with QuickBooks along with exposure to ERP or mid-market accounting systems such as NetSuite, Sage Intacct, or similar platformsExperience supporting system implementations, integrations, or process automation initiativesAbility to operate both strategically and tactically in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environmentManufacturing, e-commerce, or family-owned business experience is a plusFor confidential consideration, please email careers@forgesc.com or apply directly.