The Operational Controller for Imperial will be responsible for overseeing all accounting, financial reporting, and cost accounting activities related to manufacturing operations. This role ensures accurate product costing, inventory valuation, financial reporting, internal controls and manufacturing cost analytics while partnering with operations leadership to drive cost efficiency and profitability. The Operational Controller plays a key role in budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and supporting operational decision-making as a key operational business partner.

• Salary: $80,000 - $100,000
• Full Time
• Location: Greater St. Louis Area

What You’ll be Doing

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee month-end and year-end close for manufacturing operations, maintaining a high level of accuracy and compliance with US GAAP
• Prepare and review financial statements, management reports, and in-depth variance analysis to plan, forecast and prior year
• Prepare clear and concise commentary for monthly operating results, not just reporting the numbers, but also the “what and why” behind performance trends and variances
• Ensure accurate revenue recognition, cost allocation, and expense reporting
• Provide financial insights to support strategic and operational decisions
• Drive Net Working Capital initiatives to optimize inventory, accounts receivable and accounts payable positions

Operational Partnership

• Provide leadership and direction to the operational business partners, including the VP Operations, plant management, and supply chain team
• Provide financial analysis related to pricing, production efficiency, and capital investments
• Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives

Cost Accounting

• Manage and maintain standard costing and product costing systems
• Analyze manufacturing variances (labor, material, overhead, scrap, yield)
• Monitor cost drivers and recommend cost reduction initiatives
• Review bill of material (BOM) and routing accuracy

Inventory Management

• Ensure accurate inventory valuation and reporting
• Oversee cycle count and physical inventory processes
• Investigate inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actions
• Monitor slow-moving and obsolete inventory

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead annual budgeting and periodic forecasting for manufacturing operations
• Partner with operations to develop production cost projections
• Track and analyze actual vs. budget performance

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Maintain strong internal controls over financial reporting and inventory
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and company policies
• Support external audits and internal audit activities

Systems & Process Improvement

• Manage financial data within ERP systems
• Improve reporting automation and data accuracy
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting and operational processes

What We Need

• Bachelor’s degree (B.S./B.A.) or equivalent from a college or university in Accounting or Finance and a minimum of six years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. MBA or CPA is preferred.
• 8+ years of accounting and/or finance experience, with 2+ years of experience in manufacturing
• Experience using an ERP system - NetSuite experience is strongly preferred
• Expert Excel user, with a strong understanding of databases, queries and reports
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects with little or no supervision (expert)
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills with the proven ability to develop personnel (expert)
• Practical knowledge of Lean business practices (intermediate)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time while working at a computer or workstation
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and keyboards
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via electronic communication
• Occasional ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• Ability to move throughout the facility, including walking, bending, and reaching as needed
• Visual acuity sufficient to read screens, documents, and reports

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Benefits

• Free Hats
• 401K with company match
• Health care (medical, dental, vision)
• Employee Assistance Program
• PTO (vacation, personal days, 9 company holidays)
• Opportunities for continuing education
• Employee product discounts

To apply, please click “apply” or reach out for additional information! We look forward to meeting with you.

Company Overview Since 1916, Imperial has epitomized luxury, authenticity, and individuality by crafting premium headwear, apparel, and accessories with an unwavering dedication to quality and detail. Our team is committed to excellence–serving customers in golf, retail, corporate, and destination/leisure markets. We are available in the top resorts, golf courses, national sporting events, and retail locations nationwide. As the #1 headwear brand* in the golf market and an entrusted licensing partner for companies including Nike, Adidas, and Peter Millar–Imperial is leading the industry in decorative apparel.

*Voted by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported by Golf Datatech

Our Mission: We create consumer products that enrich and embellish people’s lives. Our responsiveness, continuous improvement, and empowerment of all team members are the pillars of our success.

Imperial is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We are committed to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds.