Project Controller

    Highlights

    As Project Controller, you will serve as a strategic finance leader responsible for the financial governance, performance management, and successful execution of large, complex projects and programs across the enterprise. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that high-value initiatives-such as capital projects, system implementations, and transformation efforts-are delivered with financial discipline, transparency, and alignment to organizational objectives.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationAkron, OH

    Description

    As Project Controller, you will serve as a strategic finance leader responsible for the financial governance, performance management, and successful execution of large, complex projects and programs across the enterprise. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that high-value initiatives-such as capital projects, system implementations, and transformation efforts-are delivered with financial discipline, transparency, and alignment to organizational objectives. You will partner with project management, senior and executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive accountability, mitigate risk, and deliver measurable business outcomes.

    • Lead financial planning, analysis, and oversight for complex, high-impact projects, ensuring alignment with approved budgets, forecasts, and strategic objectives. Provide financial visibility and transparency throughout the project lifecycle.
    • Establish and manage project budgets, forecasts, and cost controls. Monitor financial performance, analyze variances, and implement corrective actions to ensure projects remain on track financially and operationally.
    • Partner with project managers, engineering, operations, and executive stakeholders to drive disciplined execution of large, multi-functional initiatives. Ensure financial considerations are embedded in all phases of project planning and delivery.
    • Identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks associated with complex projects. Implement and maintain robust control frameworks to ensure compliance, protect assets, and support auditable project execution.
    • Develop and deliver clear, actionable financial reporting and insights to senior leadership. Translate complex financial data into strategic recommendations that support decision-making and optimize project outcomes.
    • Drive continuous improvement in project financial management processes, tools, and systems, including participation in ERP implementations and digital transformation initiatives.
    • Support change management efforts across major initiatives, ensuring stakeholder alignment, clear communication, and adoption of new processes and systems.

    PREFERRED work experience requirements

    • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; Master's preferred
    • CPA, CMA, or equivalent certification strongly preferred
    • 15+ years of progressive finance experience with a strong focus on project-based financial management, capital projects, or large-scale initiatives
    • Demonstrated experience supporting or leading complex, cross-functional projects in a matrixed environment
    • Strong knowledge of US GAAP, cost accounting, and project financial controls
    • Experience with ERP systems and project financial management tools (implementation experience preferred)
    • Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive financial accountability across project teams
    • Project & Program Financial Management

    Advanced capability in managing the financial lifecycle of large-scale projects, including budgeting, forecasting, cost tracking, and ROI analysis.

    Specific skills and/or business competencies:

    • Strategic & Analytical Thinking

    Ability to synthesize complex financial and operational data into actionable insights that drive decision-making at the executive level.

    • Cross-Functional Leadership & Influence

    Strong ability to collaborate across diverse teams, influence without direct authority, and align stakeholders toward common project goals.

    • Risk Assessment & Mitigation

    Proficiency in identifying financial, operational, and compliance risks within large projects and implementing effective mitigation strategies.

    • Financial Systems & Digital Acumen

    Experience leveraging ERP systems and financial tools to enhance project reporting, controls, and efficiency; ability to support system implementations and transformations.

    • Executive Communication & Reporting

    Exceptional ability to present complex financial information clearly and concisely to senior leadership, including translating data into strategic recommendations.

    • Change Management & Adaptability

    Demonstrated ability to lead through change, manage ambiguity, and drive adoption of new processes within dynamic, project-driven environments.

    • Results Orientation & Accountability

    Strong ownership mindset with a focus on delivering measurable project outcomes, meeting deadlines, and maintaining financial discipline.

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