Accounting Manager
We’re partnering with a growth-oriented manufacturing organization to hire an Accounting Manager to lead plant-level finance. This is a highly visible, hands-on role where you’ll sit at the intersection of accounting and operations, owning the numbers while influencing how the business runs.
This isn’t a “review and delegate” position. You’ll be in the details, partnering directly with plant leadership, and helping bring structure, insight, and accountability to a fast-moving environment.
Responsibilities
- Lead all day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, cost accounting, inventory, and AR/AP
- Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting
- Build and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans aligned with operational goals
- Maintain and refine standard costing; analyze variances across materials, labor, and overhead
- Translate manufacturing activity into financial insights that drive better decision-making
- Monitor KPIs and cost trends, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability
- Partner closely with operations and supply chain teams to support cost control and process improvements
- Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and audit requirements (including SOX)
- Support internal and external audits and strengthen documentation and processes
- Act as the key finance liaison to corporate, ensuring alignment and clear communication Why You’ll Love It Here
- Real impact: You’ll directly influence plant performance, not just report on it
- Visibility: Partner closely with operations leadership and senior finance
- Growth runway: Clear path toward broader leadership roles, including Controller-level opportunities
- Dynamic environment: Ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, evolving manufacturing setting
- Strong culture: Collaborative, team-oriented environment with a “roll up your sleeves” mentality
- Competitive package: Base salary, performance bonus, and sign-on incentive
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 8–10+ years of progressive accounting experience, ideally within manufacturing or a complex operational environment
- Strong cost accounting and inventory experience; exposure to lean or value stream accounting is a plus
- Experience working within structured environments (public company or similar) with audit and reporting rigor
- A hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves mindset, someone who executes, not just oversees
- Ability to partner cross-functionally and communicate effectively with both finance and operations teams
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to turn complex data into actionable insights
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) and advanced Excel skills
- CPA, MBA, or Six Sigma/lean certifications are a plus, but not required
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ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
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Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
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• Consumer Package Goods (CPG)
Founded on long-standing relationships and hundreds of successful placements throughout the Twin Cities business community, SkyWater Search Partners is a proven resource for clients and candidates looking to quickly and confidently explore their “short list” of best choices. Count on us to find the best people – and the best fit.
