Controller/Accounting Manager
Website Savage Search Associates
Controller / Accounting Manager
Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite Preferred | Hybrid Considered)
A well-established and profitable manufacturing and distribution company in Irvine is seeking a hands-on Controller / Accounting Manager to join its leadership team. This organization has been a trusted industry provider for decades and continues to expand its presence through both specialty distribution channels and major national retailers.
This role is ideal for an accounting leader who enjoys working in a lean, entrepreneurial environment where they can have direct impact across finance, operations, and business strategy.
The position reports directly to the President and will play a key role in financial oversight, reporting, and operational support.
Why This Role Stands Out
• Long-standing, stable company with decades of industry leadership
• Direct partnership with company President and leadership team
• High visibility role with influence across finance and operations
• Strong retention culture with many long-tenured employees
• Opportunity to shape financial reporting and systems in a growing organization
Position Overview
This is a highly hands-on accounting leadership role responsible for overseeing the company’s financial operations while also executing core accounting functions.
Unlike large corporate Controller positions, this role requires someone comfortable rolling up their sleeves and owning the work including close processes, payroll, reporting, and financial analysis.
The Controller / Accounting Manager will also oversee a small internal team supporting purchasing, customer service, and billing functions.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Close
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Own monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process
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Prepare GAAP-compliant financial statements
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Perform accruals, reconciliations, and variance analysis
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Prepare detailed monthly sales and cost reporting
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Manage year-end audit and serve as liaison to external CPA firm
Cash Management
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Maintain weekly cash flow forecasting
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Monitor working capital and liquidity
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Manage seasonal revenue fluctuations
Tax & Compliance
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Oversee sales tax filings, 1099s, and property tax reporting
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Ensure compliance with state and local regulatory requirements
Budgeting & Forecasting
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Lead semi-annual budgeting process
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Build financial forecasts based on sales trends, costs, and seasonality
Payroll & Administration
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Process payroll and manage related reporting
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Prepare bi-monthly sales commission statements
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Oversee purchasing, customer service, and billing support functions
Systems & Reporting
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Develop financial reporting and dashboards
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Support ERP systems and reporting tools
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Maintain historical financial data and internal reporting structure
Team Structure
Reports to: President
Direct Reports:
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Purchasing Manager
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Customer Service Manager
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AR / Billing Support
The company operates with a small, collaborative team environment of approximately 20 employees.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Required Experience
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Strong hands-on accounting leadership experience
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Background in small to mid-sized companies
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Experience managing full financial close
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Payroll processing experience
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Cash flow forecasting expertise
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GAAP financial reporting
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Audit coordination with external CPAs
Preferred Experience
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Manufacturing or distribution environment
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Inventory accounting
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ERP systems exposure
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Experience supporting seasonal or cyclical businesses
Leadership Style
This company values professionals who:
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Take ownership and accountability
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Operate independently without heavy oversight
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Are practical problem-solvers
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Thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments
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Enjoy building processes in growing organizations
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary:
Target range around $150K, with flexibility for exceptional candidates.
Bonus:
Discretionary annual bonus
Benefits Include
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75% employer-paid medical coverage (employee + family)
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Dental and vision
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401(k) with company match
This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional who wants to be deeply involved in the financial and operational success of a growing organization rather than operating in a siloed corporate structure.