ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Business Partnering
- Partner with plant functional leaders to provide financial insights and support operational decision-making.
- Translate financial results into actionable recommendations to improve cost performance and profitability.
Financial Planning & Analysis
- Prepare and analyze monthly department-level P&Ls (Budget, Actuals, Forecast).
- Support development of annual budgets and rolling forecasts.
- Perform variance analysis and identify key cost drivers.
Cost Optimization
- Identify, evaluate, and support execution of cost reduction initiatives across the plant.
- Analyze material, labor, and overhead costs; recommend efficiency improvements.
- Track and report savings initiatives and performance against targets.
Performance Management
- Develop and monitor KPIs related to cost efficiency and operational effectiveness.
- Support management reporting with clear and concise financial insights.
Controls and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting policies, and audit requirements.
- Support internal and external audit activities.
Capital and Operations Support
- Assist in capital investment analysis (ROI, payback, business case development).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on continuous improvement initiatives.
Reporting
- Prepare and present financial results and insights to plant leadership and finance management.
COMPETENCY OR POSITION REQUIREMENTS (knowledge, skills, and abilities)
Knowledge
- Strong foundation in FP&A, cost accounting, and manufacturing finance
- Understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
- Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and reporting tools
Skills
- Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Strong Excel and financial modeling skills
- Ability to synthesize complex data into clear business insights
- Effective communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority
Abilities
- Ability to operate in both a hands-on and analytical capacity
- Strong business acumen with operational orientation
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Demonstrated ability to support cost optimization and process improvements
- Detail-oriented with strong focus on accuracy and controls
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (required levels)
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field required
- CPA, CMA, or MBA required
Experience
- 6-10 years of progressive finance experience, preferably in manufacturing or plant environment
- Experience in cost accounting and FP&A required
- Prior experience supporting cost reduction or operational performance initiatives
- Experience working with cross-functional teams in an operational setting