Original job description
Job Details: Job Location: Richmond - RICHMOND, BC, Salary Range: Undisclosed, 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: 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.
