We have partnered with our client in their search for a Interim Controller - Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing
Location is central to this role: you must be able to be onsite in the New Orleans, Louisiana area. Local candidates and out-of-market candidates willing to travel in are both welcome!
About the Company
A well-capitalized, private-equity-backed aerospace & defense manufacturer based in the greater New Orleans area. The business designs, manufactures, and tests advanced composite and large-scale metallic structures for space, launch, and human-spaceflight applications. It's a lean, fast-moving operation of roughly 70 people where finance sits close to the shop floor and to the leadership team.
The Opportunity
We're seeking an Interim Controller to oversee the accounting function while serving as a trusted finance partner to the local General Manager. The ideal consultant brings strong controllership fundamentals, deep experience with long-term project accounting, and the flexibility to support broader finance and operational initiatives in a small, hands-on organization.
What You'll Do
- Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including the monthly close and financial reporting
- Manage accounting for long-term contracts and project-based revenue recognition
- Ensure the accuracy of financial statements, account reconciliations, and general ledger activity
- Monitor project financial performance - costs, margins, and forecasts across key programs
- Partner with the General Manager on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and operational finance decisions
- Support financial planning, variance analysis, and ad hoc reporting for leadership
- Maintain internal controls and ensure compliance with accounting policies and applicable regulations
- Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and other finance partners as needed
- Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and reporting in a small, fast-paced environment
- Provide day-to-day leadership of the finance function while remaining a hands-on contributor
Must-Haves
- Aerospace industry experience - Aerospace & Defense, Space & Launch, or Government Contracting. (Candidates from adjacent project-based manufacturing environments - advanced/industrial manufacturing, engineering & industrial technology, automotive/heavy manufacturing, energy equipment, or marine/shipbuilding - will also be considered.)
- Prior Controller experience (or an Assistant Controller ready to step up)
- Strong knowledge of long-term contract / project accounting (percentage-of-completion / ASC 606 or similar)
- Strong knowledge of fixed price contracts and related percentage of completion accounting
- Manufacturing experience with inventory, cost accounting, and WIP
- Ability to operate in a hands-on, lean organization where the Controller wears multiple hats
- Strong financial reporting, month-end close, and general accounting expertise
- Experience partnering directly with business or plant leadership on financial decisions
- Willingness to be onsite in New Orleans at least 50% of the time
About Korn Ferry
Korn Ferry unleashes potential in people, teams, and organizations. We work with our clients to design optimal organization structures, roles, and responsibilities. We help them hire the right people and advise them on how to reward and motivate their workforce while developing professionals as they navigate and advance their careers. To learn more, please visit Korn Ferry at www.Kornferry.com
