Controller, Bilingual
Job Description
Job Title: Bilingual Controller (Full-Time)
Location: Hybrid - East end - Ottawa, Ontario (with occasional travel to other branches across Canada)
Reports to: President / CFO (or equivalent senior leadership)
Salary: $100,000–$120,000 + bonus
About the Company
We are a leading distributor with multiple locations across Canada. With a strong focus on customer service, technical support, and strategic inventory management, we continue to grow while prioritizing quality, trust, and long-term relationships.
Position Summary
We are seeking a bilingual Controller to join a seasoned accounting team. This role is ideal for a solid, capable, and confident finance professional who is adaptable, team-oriented, and eager to learn the business. Our AP and AR teams are strong, and systems run smoothly — you will provide support, guidance, and strategic financial oversight while managing HR responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & Accounting
- Lead full-cycle accounting (GL, month-end close, bank reconciliations).
- Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Oversee inventory accounting and costing in collaboration with operations.
- Provide information and support to external auditors for year-end audits.
Budgeting & Forecasting
- Develop annual budgets and rolling forecasts with department leaders.
- Track performance against budgets and provide actionable variance analysis.
- Support pricing, margin, and cost reviews tied to overall profitability.
Internal Controls & Compliance
- Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls and procedures.
- Ensure compliance with Canadian accounting standards, Revenue Québec, and tax requirements.
Cash & Treasury Management
- Monitor cash flow, working capital, and banking relationships.
- Oversee credit and collections policies as needed.
- Support capital planning for equipment, facilities, or technology investments.
HR & People Management
- Act as HR lead, overseeing payroll (through ADP), vacation tracking, RRSP/pension plan, and employee benefits.
- Provide mentorship and support to the AP/AR teams as needed — primarily as a sounding board, not heavy supervision.
- Promote a collaborative and team-oriented environment.
Process Improvement & Leadership
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation.
- Partner with senior leadership on strategic initiatives and financial planning.
- Support cross-functional projects while respecting the established, efficient accounting team.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bilingual (French & English) — essential due to Québec business and Revenue Québec requirements.
- CPA designation (or equivalent accounting designation in Canada). ASSET
- 5–7 years of progressive accounting/finance experience, ideally in wholesale, distribution, or logistics.
- Solid understanding of inventory-centric business models and cost accounting.
- Advanced Excel skills; experience with accounting and ERP systems (Infor CloudSuite Distribution preferred).
- Team-oriented, adaptable, and collaborative approach
Core Competencies
- Strong business partnering and strategic thinking skills.
- Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and integrity.
- Process-minded, but flexible in approach to support an existing high-functioning team.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, multi-branch distribution environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary + bonus, paid vacation, personal days, birthday off, and some paid holiday time.
- Pension matching up to 3%.
- Opportunity to influence growth and financial strategy across a national footprint.
- Collaborative, service-focused environment with experienced industry professionals.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
In accordance with Ontario's Pay Transparency laws, TAG HR is committed to providing clear and accessible information regarding compensation. Actual compensation may vary based on experience and qualifications.
At TAG HR, we believe hiring should be human-led. We do not use artificial intelligence to screen out applicants. Every application is reviewed by a real person, because people deserve to be seen as more than keywords.