What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at Elephant & Co.?
Eastern Market Brewing Co. is one of Michigan’s fastest-growing breweries, with a family of businesses that includes Ferndale Project—our experimental hub and community brewery—and two Detroit-style pizza locations under the Elephant & Co. brand in Royal Oak and Detroit. As we continue to scale, we’re looking for a dynamic, hands-on Controller to lead and refine our financial operations across the entire organization.
About the Role
As Controller, you will serve as a key strategic and operational partner reporting directly to the Founder. We’re looking for someone who’s not just great with numbers, but someone who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment—someone eager to drive change, implement systems, and work collaboratively with department leaders to strengthen our financial foundation.
Responsibilities
- Own and oversee the day-to-day accounting and finance functions across all entities
- Develop and maintain internal controls, financial policies, and standard operating procedures
- Partner with leadership to analyze performance, identify opportunities, and implement improvements
- Lead the monthly close process, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reporting
- Coordinate with external accountants on tax filings and year-end financial statements
- Manage cash flow forecasting, budgeting, and cost analysis
- Help evaluate systems and tools to streamline financial operations and reporting
- Serve as a key point of contact for managers across departments, helping to align financial strategy with operational goals
Qualifications
- Experience in accounting or finance, ideally in craft beer, hospitality, or multi-unit food & beverage operations
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial controls, and accounting systems
- Proven track record of identifying and driving operational improvements
- Comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution
- Exceptional attention to detail, communication skills, and business acumen
- Experience with inventory management, cost of goods sold, and multi-entity consolidations a plus
- Experience with Xero, Ohanify, Rippling,and GoTab or other Point of Sale systems is a plus.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a go-getter with a builder’s mindset—someone excited to roll up their sleeves and help take us to the next level. You’ll be joining a team that’s intentional, scrappy, and kind, with big goals and a culture of continuous improvement.
