Assistant Controller/Director of Inventory Accounting

Overview This newly established leadership position will oversee inventory accounting and financial reporting within a publicly traded apparel company known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Reporting directly to senior finance leadership, the role demands a seasoned CPA with deep expertise in inventory valuation, cost accounting, and SEC-compliant reporting. Located in Southern California with a hybrid work schedule, this role offers broad influence over the accounting function during a pivotal phase of operational and financial maturity.

Title: Assistant Controller/Director of Inventory Accounting Industry: Sustainable Fashion Apparel Location: Greater Los Angeles Responsibilities Manage global inventory valuation processes, including raw materials, work-in-progress, finished goods, and in-transit stock, ensuring accurate landed cost capitalization across multiple countries. Oversee and refine standard costing methods, bill of materials governance, and cost integrity to provide transparent gross margin and variance reporting for leadership.

Lead month-end and year-end close activities, delivering timely financial statements, balance sheet reconciliations, and detailed management reports aligned with US GAAP and SEC requirements. Develop and maintain robust internal controls and SOX compliance frameworks, supporting external audits and documenting complex accounting policies. Drive continuous improvement initiatives for ERP systems, particularly NetSuite, to optimize financial close processes and enhance executive-level KPI dashboards.

Collaborate cross-functionally with FP&A, supply chain, production, and distribution teams to align financial strategies with operational goals and support new market expansions. Lead, mentor, and grow the accounting team, fostering a high-performing culture that scales with the company’s evolving business needs. Qualifications Must-Have: CPA certification with 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 4 years in senior leadership roles.

Proven background in public accounting or private industry with exposure to publicly traded company reporting, SEC filings, and SOX compliance. Extensive expertise in inventory and cost accounting within retail, apparel, or consumer packaged goods sectors, managing complex multi-entity and multi-currency environments. Advanced proficiency with ERP systems, especially NetSuite, and strong Excel skills for financial modeling and data analysis.

Demonstrated success leading and developing accounting teams, with the ability to influence cross-functional partners and senior executives. Nice-to-Have: MBA or advanced degree in accounting, finance, or related field. Experience supporting or leading financial reporting in a high-SKU, international manufacturing or e-commerce environment. Familiarity with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting considerations within the fashion or retail industry.