Controller

Kansas

We are seeking an experienced Accounting Manager/Controller to lead the accounting and finance function for a multi-entity utilities organization. This role will oversee a team of Plant Controllers and serve as a strategic partner to operational and executive leadership across the business. The ideal candidate will bring a strong blend of accounting leadership, financial analysis, operational support, and business partnership, with the ability to effectively balance both the accounting and finance sides of the organization. This position requires a proven leader with 8+ years of progressive experience, deep experience in SAP, and prior experience within the utilities industry, including water, gas, or electric environments. Key Responsibilities Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Plant Controllers across multiple entities and locations. Based on general knowledge. Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting. Maintain strong internal controls, accounting policies, and compliance procedures across the organization. Partner closely with operations leadership to support plant performance, cost management, and financial decision-making. Provide both controllership oversight and financial insight, bridging technical accounting with budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and strategic planning. Manage consolidated financial reporting for a multi-entity structure, ensuring consistency and accuracy across business units. Analyze plant and entity-level financial results, identify trends, and present recommendations to senior leadership. Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning processes. Ensure compliance with GAAP, regulatory requirements, and company policies. Based on general knowledge. Drive process improvements, standardization, and efficiencies within accounting and finance operations. Leverage SAP to support reporting, financial controls, and operational visibility. Based on general knowledge. Collaborate cross-functionally with finance, accounting, operations, and executive leadership to improve business performance. Qualifications 8+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including significant leadership responsibility. Proven experience managing and developing teams, preferably overseeing Plant Controllers or finance leaders in a multi-site environment. Strong knowledge of financial reporting, general ledger, month-end close, budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls. Demonstrated ability to operate effectively at the intersection of accounting and finance, combining technical expertise with strategic business support. Experience working in a multi-entity business structure. Required experience in the utilities industry, specifically within water, gas, or electric organizations. Hands-on experience with SAP is required. Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders across finance and operations. Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required. CPA, CMA, or MBA preferred.