Operations Controller

Our client, a leader in the aluminum extrusion industry, is looking to hire an Operations Controller to support our manufacturing operations from a financial risk and performance perspective.

The Operations Controller reports directly to the Group Controller. There are no direct reports.

This is a hands-on, operationally focused role that blends elements of internal auditing, financial analysis, and process improvement, embedded within a plant and production environment.

Working location: Woodbridge, ON, 100% onsite

What Makes This Role Unique:

• Not a typical Financial Controller – no team management, no routine accounting.
• Focus is on internal controls, financial risk analysis, and operational efficiency.
• Requires time spent on the plant floor working directly with operations staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Understand and document plant operations by conducting process walkthroughs and job shadowing of key personnel.
• Identify risks and weaknesses in production workflows, inventory handling, and cost controls.
• Recommend and support implementation of corrective actions, policies, and procedures to improve financial integrity and efficiency.
• Conduct financial internal control testing across business units independently, including planning and sampling.
• Use automated audit techniques and data reporting tools to analyze large volumes of operational and financial data.
• Compare operational procedures across plants, recommending best practices for:
• Cost accounting
• Inventory controls
• Production processes
• Collaborate cross-functionally with department managers to communicate findings and develop action plans.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of manufacturing experience is essential.
• CPA designation or currently in the final stages of the program.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Technically proficient in financial and audit software and able to learn new systems quickly.
• Must be self-directed and comfortable working independently in a fast-paced and dynamic manufacturing setting.
• Must be comfortable working on the shop floor, observing production, and interacting with frontline personnel.

What We’re Looking for in a Candidate:

• Someone with a strong financial background who thrives in manufacturing environments.
• A critical thinker and proactive analyst who can identify gaps, recommend improvements, and follow through on execution.
• Comfortable being a hands-on contributor rather than managing others.
• Able to travel domestically and internationally, with a valid passport.
• Not suited to someone coming from a pure accounting or office-based controller role—this is a highly operational and analytical position.