Finance Manager

POSITION PURPOSE
The Finance Manager, Cost Optimization serves as a key business partner to plant leadership (Quality, Supply Chain, Operations), supporting financial performance through cost analysis, reporting, and decision support.
This role is responsible for delivering accurate and timely financial reporting (Budget, Actuals, Forecast), identifying cost optimization opportunities, and supporting execution of cost reduction initiatives to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
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