Role Overview for SVP, Corporate Controller with a Public Manufacturer – Cleveland, OH
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, publicly traded global manufacturing leader in their search for a Senior Vice President (SVP), Corporate Controller. Based at their corporate headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, this is a career-defining opportunity for a transformative finance executive to join a dynamic and innovative organization. The SVP, Corporate Controller will serve as the chief accounting officer, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and will be a critical member of the senior finance leadership team.
This executive will be responsible for the integrity of the company’s global accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal control environment. The ideal candidate is a strategic, hands-on leader with extensive experience in a complex, multinational manufacturing environment. You will be tasked with leading a large, geographically dispersed team, driving process improvements, and serving as the company’s foremost expert on technical accounting matters.
This role requires a strong partnership with the CFO, executive leadership, and business unit leaders to ensure that the accounting function is not only a bastion of compliance and accuracy but also a value-added partner that provides critical insights to support strategic decision-making and drive business performance. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of the company, overseeing all aspects of accounting, including SEC reporting, global consolidation, SOX compliance, and M&A integration.
We are seeking an individual with impeccable integrity, a strong work ethic, and the executive presence to effectively communicate with the audit committee, board of directors, and external stakeholders. If you are a visionary accounting leader with a proven track record of success in a public company setting and are ready to make a significant impact on a world-class organization, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Corporate Controller with a Public Manufacturer – Cleveland, OH
Global Accounting Leadership & Team Development
Direct and oversee all aspects of the company’s global accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets. Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global accounting team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional growth. Set departmental goals and objectives that align with the overall corporate strategy.
SEC Reporting and Compliance
Manage the timely and accurate preparation and filing of all external financial reports, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and the annual proxy statement. Ensure compliance with all SEC regulations and U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and oversee the successful completion of the annual audit and quarterly reviews.
Financial Close and Consolidation
Lead the global monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close and consolidation process. Implement best practices to streamline processes, reduce the close timeline, and enhance the accuracy and quality of financial data. Ensure all balance sheet accounts are reconciled and properly supported.
Internal Controls & Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Compliance
Maintain and enhance a robust internal control environment in full compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Oversee the SOX 404 compliance program, including risk assessment, documentation, testing, and remediation. Coordinate with internal and external auditors on all SOX-related matters.
Technical Accounting Expertise
Act as the company’s subject matter expert on complex technical accounting issues. Research, interpret, and document the company’s position on new accounting pronouncements and standards. Provide guidance to the finance organization and business leaders on the application of accounting policies.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Support
Provide critical accounting leadership for M&A activities. Lead financial due diligence efforts for potential acquisitions and manage the accounting integration of acquired businesses, including purchase price allocation and the implementation of company accounting policies and systems.
Process Improvement and System Optimization
Continuously evaluate and improve accounting processes, workflows, and systems to drive efficiency, scalability, and automation. Partner with the IT department to optimize the use of the company’s ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and other financial technologies.
Strategic Business Partnership
Collaborate closely with the CFO, FP&A team, Treasury, Tax, and operational leaders across the globe. Provide financial insights, analysis, and support for key business initiatives, strategic planning, and operational decision-making. Effectively communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
Requirements for the SVP, Corporate Controller with a Public Manufacturer – Cleveland, OH
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field is required. A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a related advanced degree is highly preferred.
Certification
An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory for this role.
Experience
- A minimum of 15+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Corporate Controller, Assistant Controller, or Director of Accounting) within a large-scale, publicly traded global manufacturing organization.
- Significant experience gained from a ‘Big 4’ or large national public accounting firm is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated, in-depth experience managing the SEC reporting process for a public company is essential.
- Proven track record of leading and developing large, diverse, and geographically dispersed accounting teams.
- Experience with complex M&A transactions, including due diligence and post-acquisition integration, is a significant asset.
Technical Skills
- Deep and current expertise in U.S. GAAP, SEC regulations, and SOX 404 compliance.
- Extensive experience with large-tier ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and financial consolidation software (e.g., Hyperion HFM).
- Strong proficiency in financial modeling and data analysis.
Leadership & Interpersonal Skills
- Exceptional leadership and management skills with a proven ability to inspire, motivate, and develop talent.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial concepts to diverse audiences, including the executive team and the Board of Directors’ Audit Committee.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking capabilities with a meticulous attention to detail.
- High level of integrity, ethics, and professionalism. A proactive and results-oriented mindset with a demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a comprehensive and competitive executive compensation package, including:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Meaningful equity participation through stock options and/or restricted stock units (RSUs) to align your success with the company’s long-term growth.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan featuring a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Professional Development
Strong support for continued learning, including sponsorship for executive education, professional certifications, and industry conferences.
Additional Perks
Access to executive wellness programs, life insurance, disability coverage, and other fringe benefits.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, interested and qualified candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the role. We are committed to a confidential and thorough review process.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, and we specialize in connecting top-tier talent with world-class organizations. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit the JRG Partners’ Finance & Accounting Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this pivotal leadership role with you.
