Financial Controller

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Controller to lead the finance and accounting operations for Freshlunches dba Unity Meals, a rapidly growing vended meals supplier serving schools across Southern California. Unity Meals, a family-owned company, was ranked No 653 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies and No. 27 fastest-growing private company amongst all Food and Beverage companies. Reporting directly to the President, the Controller will be responsible for overseeing all financial reporting, budgeting, compliance, and driving key initiatives in cost accounting and contracts management. The role will also involve managing the company’s banking relationships, ensuring strong cash flow management, and supporting long-term financial planning. This onsite position requires strong leadership to manage accounting teams and systems while ensuring excellent financial controls and the accuracy of financial data.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Reporting & Compliance:

• Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements, including tax filings.
• Lead the annual external audit process, liaising with auditors and preparing necessary documentation.
• Prepare management reports for executives, providing insights into key financial metrics, trends, and risks.

2. Budgeting & Forecasting:

• Develop and manage the company’s annual budget, working closely with department heads to monitor performance against targets.
• Lead the forecasting process, providing updated financial projections and variance analysis.
• Provide insights on cost control, identifying areas of potential savings and operational efficiency.

3. Cash Flow & Financial Planning:

• Monitor and manage the company’s cash flow, ensuring sufficient liquidity to meet operational and strategic needs.
• Work closely with the CFO and CEO on long-term financial planning, identifying opportunities for financing and growth.
• Oversee all aspects of banking relationships and capital investments.

4. Contracts Management:

• Oversee the financial aspects of all contracts, including contract compliance, pricing, and terms to ensure profitability and risk management.
• Collaborate with sales and operations teams to review, negotiate, and finalize customer and vendor contracts.
• Track and report on contract performance, identifying areas for financial improvement or renegotiation.
• Ensure that contracts align with budgetary goals and regulatory requirements.

5. Cost Accounting:

• Implement and oversee a cost accounting system that accurately captures costs associated with the production and distribution of meals.
• Analyze cost variances and margins by product line and customer, providing insights for pricing and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with operations to ensure accurate tracking of raw materials, labor, and overhead costs.
• Develop standard cost models to improve financial forecasting and decision-making.

6. Accounting Operations:

• Lead and develop the accounting team to ensure timely and accurate processing of accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger activities.
• Oversee month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring all reconciliations are completed accurately and on time.
• Implement and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure accuracy of financial information.
• Monitor insurance needs, costs and obtain competitive quotes for renewal.

7. Process Improvement, Technology & Systems Management:

• Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and other enterprise systems, by leveraging technology.
• Lead the implementation of new accounting systems, ERP, or other technology to streamline operations.
• Collaborate with other departments to improve cross-functional workflows that impact financial reporting and operational efficiency.

8. Strategic Partnering:

• Act as a strategic advisor to the leadership team on financial matters, providing data-driven insights to inform business decisions.
• Support mergers and acquisitions (if applicable), including financial due diligence and integration of acquired entities.

9. Human Resources:

• Work with owners and HR on related activities, including Payroll accuracy, audits, open enrollment and other related activities. Ensure company is following state and federal requirements.