Financial Controller - US client

Hemisphere Talent Solutions is partnering with an established US-based manufacturing company as they build out a small finance team in South Africa. As part of this expansion, we are seeking an experienced, hands-on Financial Controller to join the team.This role requires someone who combines strong technical accounting knowledge with a solid understanding of manufacturing operations. The successful candidate will take ownership of key financial reporting and accounting activities while working closely with operational stakeholders to provide accurate financial information, improve cost visibility and support better business decision-making.This is a remote position based in South Africa, working closely with colleagues in the United States and therefore requiring alignment with US East Coast working hours.

Key Responsibilities

Take ownership of monthly financial reporting and support an accurate and efficient month-end and year-end close process.Prepare, review and analyse management accounts and financial statements in accordance with US GAAP.Work closely with manufacturing and operational teams to understand financial performance, costs, margins and profitability.Analyse manufacturing costs and identify trends, variances and opportunities for improved cost control.Support and oversee budgeting, forecasting and financial planning activities.Maintain accurate general ledger accounts, reconciliations and supporting financial schedules.Provide meaningful financial analysis to management and translate financial information into actionable business insights.Support the development and maintenance of strong financial controls, accounting processes and reporting procedures.Assist with audit requirements and ensure financial records and supporting documentation are maintained accurately.Work effectively within the company's accounting and ERP environment and identify opportunities to improve or automate financial processes.Qualifications and Experience:Approximately 6+ years of relevant accounting and finance experience, ideally including experience at Financial Controller, Accounting Manager, Senior Accountant or equivalent level.Manufacturing industry experience is required. This may include direct experience working within a manufacturing organisation or significant external audit/accounting experience servicing manufacturing clients.Strong understanding of manufacturing accounting concepts and terminology, including inventory, cost of goods sold, production costs and manufacturing variances.Good practical knowledge and experience in cost accounting/costing. Exposure to standard costing is particularly valuable.Strong working knowledge of US GAAP and the ability to apply US accounting principles in practice.Experience preparing and analysing financial reports, budgets and forecasts.Strong Excel skills and confidence working with large financial datasets.Excellent analytical ability with strong attention to detail.Comfortable communicating and collaborating with US-based stakeholders in a remote environment.Systems & Technology:Candidates should have experience working with:QuickBooks and/or another established accounting or ERP system.Microsoft Excel, ideally at an advanced level.Claude AI, with an understanding of how AI tools can be used to support financial analysis, reporting, research and process efficiency.Other ERP, reporting or financial systems used within a manufacturing environment would be advantageous.Ideal Candidate:The ideal candidate is not simply a technical accountant. We are looking for someone who understands how a manufacturing business operates and how operational activity translates into the financial results.You should be comfortable discussing areas such as inventory, production costs, margins, costing and operational variances with non-finance stakeholders, while maintaining a high standard of financial reporting and US GAAP compliance.This would suit a commercially minded accounting professional who enjoys being hands-on, working closely with operations and using financial information to help improve business performance.