Finance Manager, Cost Optimization

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