Operational/Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) Controller

Summary

This is a critical, high-visibility leadership role serving as the Operational/Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) Controller for a multi-business US market region within the solid waste collection, hauling, and disposal industry. The Controller acts as a key financial business partner to the Regional Vice President, providing strategic financial guidance and operational insight to drive performance, efficiency, and profitable growth. This role is responsible for the financial integrity of the Region and indirectly leads the Regional Operations team.

Essential Functions

The Operational/Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) Controller will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following core functions:

Financial Leadership and Reporting

• Ensure consistency, accuracy, and completeness in all financial results and operational statistics reported for the Region.

• Manage the comprehensive monthly financial forecast process and lead the annual Region budget development and review, ensuring alignment with corporate strategic goals.

• Oversee the financial close process for the Region, ensuring timely and accurate submission of financial statements and operational metrics.

• Ensure rigorous execution of and compliance with all company financial policies, internal controls, and standard operating procedures (SOX compliance experience is preferred).

Strategic Business Partnership

• Act as the primary financial advisor and strategic partner to the Regional Vice President and senior leadership team.

• Evaluate strategic business opportunities, identify financial challenges, and model various scenarios to support data-driven decision-making.

• Support the integration of acquisitions within the Region, ensuring financial controls are established and synergy targets are monitored and achieved.

• Align Region operational objectives with overarching company financial goals and assist in the strategic implementation of corporate initiatives.

Required Technical Skills

• Strong functional IT skills in major business systems (e.g., order entry, accounting, financial planning, and budgeting platforms).

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly in Excel (complex modeling, pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, data analysis).

• Ability to synthesize complex financial data into clear, actionable presentations and narratives for executive leadership.

• Experience with ERP system implementations and data migration is a plus.

Preferred Technical Skills (A plus):

• Knowledge of specific industry or enterprise systems such as Workday, Cognos, Tower, and TRUX.

Education and Experience

• Education: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration is required. CPA or CMA certification is a significant advantage.

• Experience: 5–10 years of progressive experience in an operations-focused Controller or senior FP&A leadership role within a medium to large business environment (minimum $250 million in annual sales).

• Industry Experience: Prior experience in the solid waste, transportation, logistics, or similar asset-intensive, multi-location service industries is strongly preferred.

Competencies

• Strategic thinking and strong analytical skills.

• Exceptional leadership and team development capabilities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex financial data to non-financial audiences.

• High level of integrity, independence, and accountability.

• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.