Role Overview for Controller (Food Processing) – Fresno CA
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading organizations, is excited to partner with a prominent and rapidly growing food processing company located in the agricultural heartland of Fresno, California. We are currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced Controller to join their dynamic leadership team. This pivotal role offers an exceptional opportunity for a finance professional to significantly impact the company’s financial health, operational efficiency, and strategic growth within the competitive food processing sector.
The Controller will serve as a critical strategic partner to the executive team, overseeing all aspects of financial management, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cost accounting, and internal controls. This position requires a professional with a deep understanding of the unique financial intricacies of the food processing industry, from inventory management and supply chain costs to regulatory compliance and product profitability analysis. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of implementing robust financial systems, driving process improvements, and providing insightful financial analysis to support informed business decisions. Located in Fresno, CA, this role is perfect for a leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is ready to contribute to the success of a company committed to quality, innovation, and sustainable practices. You will be instrumental in shaping the financial future of an organization that feeds millions, ensuring fiscal integrity and operational excellence.
This is more than just a finance role; it’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of the food industry, navigating its challenges and capitalizing on its opportunities. The chosen candidate will not only manage the numbers but will also lead and mentor a dedicated finance team, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development. If you are a proactive, analytical, and results-oriented Controller with a passion for the food processing industry, we encourage you to explore this outstanding career advancement opportunity with JRG Partners and our esteemed client.
Key Responsibilities of Controller (Food Processing) – Fresno CA
Financial Reporting & Analysis
Direct the preparation of timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Provide comprehensive financial analysis, including variance analysis, trend analysis, and key performance indicator (KPI) reporting, to support strategic decision-making by the executive team.
Budgeting & Forecasting
Lead the annual budgeting process and develop robust financial forecasts, collaborating with various department heads to ensure alignment with operational goals and strategic objectives. Monitor actual performance against budget and provide insightful explanations for deviations.
Cost Accounting & Inventory Management
Oversee all aspects of cost accounting, including standard costing, variance analysis, and product profitability analysis specific to the food processing environment. Implement and maintain effective inventory valuation methods (e.g., FIFO, weighted-average) and ensure accurate inventory counts and reconciliations for raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods.
Internal Controls & Compliance
Establish, implement, and maintain strong internal control policies and procedures to safeguard company assets, ensure data integrity, and prevent fraud. Ensure strict compliance with all relevant financial regulations, tax laws, and industry-specific mandates pertinent to food processing operations.
Cash Management & Treasury Functions
Manage daily cash flow, optimize working capital, and oversee banking relationships. Develop and implement strategies for effective treasury management to ensure liquidity and financial stability.
Audit Management
Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors, managing the annual financial audit process and ensuring all required documentation and information are provided accurately and on time. Facilitate internal audits as needed.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, mentor, and manage a high-performing finance and accounting team. Foster a collaborative environment, set clear performance objectives, and support professional growth and development within the department.
System Optimization
Drive continuous improvement in financial systems and processes, including ERP system utilization (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and reporting capabilities. Evaluate and recommend new technologies or upgrades as appropriate.
Strategic Partnership
Act as a key financial advisor to the CEO, COO, and other senior leaders, providing financial insights and recommendations to support strategic initiatives, capital expenditure decisions, and business development efforts.
Risk Management
Identify and assess financial risks, developing mitigation strategies to protect the company’s financial health and operational continuity.
Fixed Assets Management
Oversee the accounting for fixed assets, including depreciation, capital expenditure tracking, and asset retirement.
Tax Compliance
Coordinate with tax advisors for the timely and accurate preparation of all corporate tax filings and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.
Requirements for the Controller (Food Processing) – Fresno CA
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from an accredited institution is required. A Master’s degree (MBA) is highly preferred.
Certifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is strongly preferred.
Experience
Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in accounting and financial management, with at least 3-5 years in a Controller or Assistant Controller role within the food processing, manufacturing, or consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. Demonstrated experience with high-volume, cost-intensive production environments is essential.
Industry Knowledge
Deep understanding of cost accounting principles, inventory management, and financial reporting specific to the food processing sector, including experience with raw material costing, yield analysis, and waste management.
Technical Skills
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- Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics 365, NetSuite) is mandatory.
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and translate it into actionable business insights.
- Expert-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel for financial modeling, data analysis, and reporting.
- Experience with business intelligence (BI) tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.
Leadership & Communication
Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a finance team. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and concisely to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
Strategic Thinking
Strong strategic planning capabilities with the ability to contribute to overall business strategy and growth initiatives.
Regulatory Acumen
Familiarity with USDA, FDA, and other relevant regulatory requirements impacting financial operations in the food industry.
Location
Ability to work on-site in Fresno, CA. Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future. As a Controller, you can expect:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a performance-based bonus structure.
Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, typically effective on day one.
Retirement Planning
A strong 401(k) retirement plan with company match to help you build financial security for the future.
Paid Time Off
Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Opportunities for continuous learning, professional certifications (e.g., CPA renewal), and career advancement within a growing organization.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates, relocation support may be provided to facilitate a smooth transition to Fresno, CA.
Dynamic Work Environment
A collaborative, supportive, and innovative culture where your contributions are recognized and valued.
Impactful Role
The chance to play a critical role in the success of a leading food processing company, contributing directly to its growth and stability.
How to Apply
Are you ready to take the next step in your finance career and make a significant impact with an industry leader? If you meet the qualifications and are eager to embrace this challenging yet rewarding opportunity as a Controller (Food Processing) in Fresno, CA, we invite you to apply through JRG Partners. We are committed to finding the perfect match for both our clients and our candidates.
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Only qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview.
To learn more about how JRG Partners excels in executive placements, especially within specialized financial roles, explore our Finance & Accounting Executive Search practice area.
JRG Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
