Controller

Crown Paper Group
Crown Paper Group is a regional leader in the paper and containerboard industry, comprising four business divisions: Port Townsend Paper Company, Crown Corrugated Company, Boxmaster, Viking Way Plant and Industrial Products. With operations in the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, the group includes an integrated containerboard mill, two converting facilities, and three distribution centers. Crown Paper Group specializes in manufacturing recycled and virgin kraft containerboard, kraft pulp, and specialty products, while its converting operations excel in customer engagement and distribution networks across British Columbia and Alberta.

Function & Scope: The Controller is a key leader of the Finance & Analysis team, working closely with the Accounting team to ensure accurate and timely accounting for all 3 facilities and 4 distinct businesses at Crown. The role spans accounting, auditing, internal controls, and the continuous improvement of analytical tools and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Management & Reporting:

• Oversee all accounting operations including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, inventory, and cost accounting
• Prepare and present accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timely completion
• Develop and monitor KPIs for accounting operations including KPIs for Working Capital
• Provide financial analysis and insights to support strategic decision-making

Audit & Compliance

• Manage all external and internal audit processes, serving as primary liaison with auditors
• Coordinate year-end financial audits and ensure timely resolution of audit findings
• Work directly with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on tax matters, audits, and inquiries
• Ensure compliance with Canadian GAAP/IFRS, tax regulations, and manufacturing industry standards
• Maintain audit-ready documentation and support materials

Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Establish, document, and continuously improve internal control frameworks
• Identify control gaps and implement corrective measures to strengthen financial processes
• Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and SOPs
• Lead process improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and accuracy
• Implement and optimize ERP systems and financial technologies

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of accountants and accounting staff
• Conduct performance reviews, set goals, and create professional development plans
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and collaboration
• Recruit, onboard, and train new team members as needed
• Delegate effectively while maintaining oversight and quality control

Stakeholder & Vendor Management

• Collaborate with external service providers including auditors, tax advisors, and consultants
• Manage relationships with banking institutions and financial partners
• Coordinate with operations teams on inventory management and cost control

Reporting Structure:

Reports To: Finance Director

Internal Collaboration

• Accounting Team
• Operations
• Sales Team
• Other cross-functional departments

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Certification

• CPA/MBA (Preferred)
• Bachelor's or higher degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Experience

• Minimum 7-10 years of progressive accounting experience
• At least 3-5 years in a Controller or senior accounting management role
• Proven experience in a manufacturing or production environment
• Demonstrated experience managing financial audits and working with external auditors
• Direct experience working with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on tax matters and audits
• Strong track record of establishing and improving internal control systems
• Experience managing and developing accounting teams (minimum 3-5 direct reports)
• Experience collaborating with external service providers and consultants

Technical Skills

• Expert knowledge of Canadian GAAP and/or IFRS
• Strong understanding of Canadian tax regulations and compliance requirements
• Strong Excel and other MS Office applications skills
• Experience with cost accounting and inventory management in manufacturing settings

Leadership & Soft Skills

• Proven leadership and people management capabilities
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Strategic thinking with a hands-on, results-oriented approach
• Collaborative mindset with ability to influence cross-functional teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies
• Knowledge of transfer pricing and multi-jurisdictional tax matters
• Experience with business systems implementation or ERP conversions

Core Competencies

• Integrity & Ethics: Maintains the highest standards of accuracy and transparency; acts as a trusted steward of financial information.
• Attention to Detail: Catches errors before they compound; applies rigorous review across reconciliations, reports, and filings.
• Adaptability: Manages competing priorities and shifting deadlines without sacrificing quality — especially during close, audit, or integration periods.
• Problem Solving: Identifies root causes of discrepancies and implements durable fixes rather than workarounds.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of deliverables and outcomes; follows through without needing close supervision.
• Technical Accounting: Applies GAAP/IFRS standards, manages the close process, and ensures compliance with regulatory and reporting requirements.
• Internal Controls & Risk: Designs and maintains control frameworks, supports audits, and proactively identifies financial and operational risk.
• Systems & Process Improvement: Leverages ERP and financial tools effectively; drives automation and efficiency in accounting operations.
• Leadership & Development: Manages and coaches the accounting team, sets clear expectations, and builds capability over time.