About the Company
We are a long-established distribution company, of 50 years, headquartered in Hayward, CA, serving Northern California for decades. This is a stable, owner-led organization with long-term employees and consistent operations.
The Role
We are seeking a hands-on Controller to oversee all accounting operations and lead, train, and develop a small accounting team (currently three staff members). This role reports directly to ownership and plays a key part in building an efficient, accurate, and disciplined accounting function.
This position is ideal for a Controller who enjoys mentoring staff, improving processes, and setting standards, not just closing the books.
Key Responsibilities
Oversee month-end and year-end close
Prepare and analyze financial statements (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow)
Own inventory and cost accounting (FIFO, landed costs, shrink/spoilage)
Lead, train, and develop a team of three accounting staff
Establish clear workflows, accountability, and best practices
Publish a 30-60 day review of accounting operations of company
Improve accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness across AP, AR, and payroll coordination
Maintain general ledger integrity
Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning
Manage banking relationships and financial reporting
Support tax preparation and audits
Ensure compliance with food and distribution regulations
Team Leadership Expectations
The Controller will be responsible for:
Training staff on proper accounting processes and controls
Setting expectations for accuracy, deadlines, and documentation
Creating repeatable workflows and checklists
Coaching & reviewing staff to operate as a high-functioning accounting team
Identifying gaps and improving team performance over time
Publish a 30-60 day review of accounting operations of company
This is a working manager role, not purely supervisory.
Requirements
7+ years of progressive accounting experience
Prior experience in distribution
Strong inventory and cost accounting background
Experience managing and training accounting staff
Hands-on experience with mid-size ERP Accounting Systems
Advanced Excel skills
Comfortable in a small to mid-sized company environment
CPA not required
Major ERP experience not required
What We’re Looking For:
A leader who enjoys teaching and developing people
Organized, disciplined, and process-oriented
Strong sense of ownership and accountability
Comfortable partnering directly with ownership
Interested in long-term stability and impact
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary: $115,000 – $135,000 (DOE)
High-trust role with visibility and influence
How to Apply
Please reply with:
Resume (PDF preferred)
Brief note describing your experience leading or training accounting teams
Salary expectations
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.