Controller in Saluda, South Carolina at Palmetto Gourmet Foods Inc

Job Description: Manufacturing Controller

Location: Onsite – Palmetto Gourmet Foods, Saluda, South Carolina

Position Type: Full-Time

About Palmetto Gourmet Foods

Palmetto Gourmet Foods is a rapidly growing leader in the food manufacturing industry, committed to producing high‑quality products through innovation, efficiency, and excellence. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Controller to join our on‑site leadership team and oversee all financial and accounting functions within the organization.

Position Summary

The Controller will be responsible for managing the full Finance and Accounting department, overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, cost accounting, compliance, and internal controls. This role requires a hands‑on leader with strong experience in food manufacturing and a deep understanding of ERP systems and HRIS platforms. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, analytical, and capable of supporting a dynamic production environment.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and manage all aspects of the Finance and Accounting department.

- Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.

- Prepare accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with GAAP.

- Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to support executive decision‑making.

- Maintain a robust internal control environment and ensure regulatory and audit compliance.

- Oversee cost accounting, inventory valuation, and COGS reporting for manufacturing operations.

- Direct AP/AR functions and ensure accuracy and efficiency of financial transactions.

- Administer and optimize Microsoft‑based ERP systems for financial operations.

- Oversee and utilize AP/AR scraping software to support automation and process improvement.

- Manage payroll and HR reporting functions within ADP HRIS (WFN or TotalSource).

- Collaborate cross‑functionally with Operations, HR, Supply Chain, and Executive leadership.

- Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development to the finance team.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.

- CPA preferred.

- Minimum 3 years of experience as a Controller, managing full departmental responsibility.

- Proven experience in food manufacturing or similar process‑driven production environments.

- Strong knowledge of Microsoft‑based ERP systems.

- Experience with AP/AR scraping software and financial automation tools.

- Hands‑on experience with ADP HRIS (WFN or TotalSource).

- Strong understanding of GAAP, cost accounting, and inventory management.

- Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

- Ability to work onsite daily at the Saluda, SC facility.

Preferred Qualifications

- Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business.

- Prior experience in a fast‑growing or high‑volume manufacturing environment.

- Experience managing audits and external financial relationships.

What We Offer

- Competitive salary and benefits package.

- Opportunity to influence financial strategy in a growing organization.

- A collaborative and innovative manufacturing environment.

- Stability and long‑term career growth with a leading food production company.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking may be required.

• Must be able to lift up to 45 pounds.

• Bending, stopping, carrying up to 20 pounds may be required.

EEO Statement

PGF provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, or service in the military. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.

Palmetto Gourmet Foods is a drug free workplace.