Director of Operational Finance (Manufacturing)

Gateway Search Associates

clayton, NJ

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Accounting Close, Analysis Skills, Balance Sheet, Budgeting, Business Intelligence Software, Business Skills, Cash Flow, Cash Management, Channel Strategies, Cost Control, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Finance, Financial Analysis, Financial Management, Financial Metrics, Financial Planning, Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A), Forecasting, Leadership, Manufacturing, Mentoring, Metrics, Network Administration/Management, Operational Audit, Performance Metrics, Plant Management, Profit & Loss, Profit & Loss Analysis, Remote Team Management, SAP, Team Lead/Manager, Time Management, Willing to Travel
LOCATION
clayton, NJ
POSTED
8 days ago
We are seeking a highly analytical and results-driven Director to lead the financial planning, forecasting, and operational controlling for our client's manufacturing divisions. Reporting directly to the CEO, this highly visible leadership role will oversee 3 plant controllers.
The ideal candidate has deep manufacturing industry experience, a strong background in plant controlling, and a heavy focus on FP&A. You will be responsible for evaluating plant value drivers, managing cash flow, and acting as a strategic business partner to drive operational success.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Strategic FP&A: Lead budgeting, forecasting, and in-depth financial analysis (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow) to drive profitability.
  • Operational Analytics: Track and challenge operational, non-financial KPIs alongside traditional financial metrics.
  • Team Leadership & Mentorship: Supervise and guide Plant Controllers. Hold teams accountable for deadlines, challenge reported results, and review the metrics used to drive performance.
  • Cost Control & Closing: Oversee monthly financial closes, improve cash flow, and ensure strict cost control measures across all manufacturing locations.
  • Cross-Border Collaboration: Manage a diverse network of plants across the US and Mexico, ensuring alignment with corporate targets.



Requirements

Ideal Candidate Profile:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounitng or Finance
  • Experience: 10+ years in manufacturing finance, with a strong preference for backgrounds blending Plant Controlling and FP&A.
  • Management Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage remote teams and push back on metrics or delays to ensure results.
  • Business Acumen: A solid grasp of operational value drivers and the ability to link financial data to on-the-floor manufacturing metrics.
  • Technical: Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial BI tools. Experience with SAP is a strong plus, though solid overall ERP experience is acceptable.
  • Travel: Willingness to travel periodically to oversee East Coast and Mexico plant operations.


About the Company

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Gateway Search Associates