Controller (Sarnia)

We are partnering with a well‑established, privately held organization in the industrial services sector to recruit a Controller. This is a hands‑on leadership role supporting a project‑driven business with a strong reputation in its market. The Controller will oversee financial operations, lead a small accounting team, and partner closely with operations on project performance and decision‑making. This is an on‑site position.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full monthly close process, including preparation of financial statements, P&L, and supporting schedules, ensuring timely reporting to the parent organization.
• Review monthly trial balances and ensure accuracy and completeness of financial reporting in accordance with ASPE.
• Oversee work‑in‑progress (WIP) accounting, including percentage‑of‑completion reporting across a portfolio of up to 50 active projects.
• Prepare and review weekly and monthly WIP analysis, providing insights into project performance, risks, and opportunities.
• Develop and manage annual budgets and forecasts, and deliver variance analysis with clear commentary for leadership.
• Supervise and mentor a team of approximately five across payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and remittances.
• Oversee weekly payroll processing for both union and non‑union employees, including EFT uploads.
• Ensure compliance with union requirements, including remittances and contribution calculations, and support labour rate development.
• Oversee government remittances and regulatory compliance.
• Act as the primary point of contact for year‑end processes, coordinating with external accountants and auditors.
• Support process improvements, system enhancements, and ongoing operational efficiencies.
• Participate in special projects, including audits, system implementations, and finance process improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. CPA designation is an asset.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
• Strong experience in construction or project‑based accounting environments is required.
• Proven experience with WIP and percentage‑of‑completion accounting.
• Experience leading month‑end close, financial reporting, and budgeting processes.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, including managing complex data, building models, and performing detailed analysis.
• Experience working with ERP systems; exposure to project accounting systems is strongly preferred.
• Robust organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Self‑starter with a sense of urgency and accountability.
• Confident communicator who can partner effectively with operational leaders.
• Team‑oriented mindset with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Compensation and additional details can be shared with interested candidates.

This listing is for a current vacancy with one of our clients.

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