Plant Controller

Location: Starr, SC
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Department: Finance & Accounting
Reports to:  Plant Leader
Span of Control: 2 Salaried Direct Reports

Position Overview

Our client, a leading manufacturing organization, is seeking an experienced Plant Controller to provide financial leadership and strategic business partnership for their Starr, SC manufacturing facility. This role serves as a key member of the plant leadership team and is responsible for driving financial performance, ensuring regulatory and internal control compliance, supporting operational decision-making, and leading select administrative functions within the facility.

The Plant Controller will work closely with plant operations and corporate leadership to support business objectives through financial planning, analysis, forecasting, cost management, and continuous improvement initiatives. This position also oversees certain non-financial administrative functions and contributes to the overall success of the operation through cross-functional leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Business Partnership

• Serve as the primary financial leader for the manufacturing facility.
• Partner with plant leadership to establish operational and financial objectives aligned with business goals.
• Provide financial guidance to support strategic decision-making and long-term planning.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability, productivity, and operational performance.
• Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to support business objectives.

Financial Planning, Reporting & Analysis

• Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Prepare and present financial projections, performance reports, and business analyses.
• Monitor monthly close activities and ensure accuracy of financial results.
• Analyze variances, trends, and key business drivers to identify risks and opportunities.
• Communicate financial performance and recommendations to leadership and cross-functional teams.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Maintain a strong internal control environment.
• Ensure compliance with financial reporting requirements, accounting standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Support audits and internal control assessments.
• Drive accountability and process documentation to support operational and financial controls.

Cost Management & Profitability Improvement

• Lead initiatives focused on cost reduction, productivity improvements, and operational efficiency.
• Evaluate capital investments and business cases for strategic projects.
• Support contract review, negotiation, and financial evaluation activities.
• Develop and communicate key performance metrics that drive business performance.
• Provide actionable analytics to support continuous improvement efforts.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate across operations, finance, supply chain, and corporate functions to achieve business objectives.
• Participate in site leadership initiatives, safety programs, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Share best practices and drive process enhancements across the organization.
• Support organizational change and strategic initiatives as needed.

People Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop direct reports and finance team members.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional development.
• Provide financial education and support to non-financial leaders throughout the organization.
• Support succession planning and talent development initiatives.

Administrative & Operational Support

• Provide oversight and support for various plant administrative functions, which may include:
  • Materials planning
  • Inventory and warehouse operations
  • Procurement and sourcing
  • Information technology coordination
  • Site security and facility administration
• Ensure resources are effectively allocated to support operational success.
• Promote and maintain a safe work environment throughout the facility.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline.
• 7+ years of progressive finance or accounting experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing accounting, cost accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Experience supporting plant operations and partnering with operational leaders.
• Demonstrated experience developing business cases, investment analyses, and profitability improvement initiatives.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.

Preferred

• MBA, CPA, CMA, or related professional certification.
• Experience leading financial teams within a manufacturing facility.
• Experience with capital project analysis and strategic planning initiatives.
• Knowledge of internal controls, audit processes, and compliance requirements.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong financial and business acumen.
• Thorough understanding of manufacturing operations and cost accounting principles.
• Ability to translate complex financial information into actionable business insights.
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to execution.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proven ability to influence decision-making across all levels of an organization.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Results-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong ethical standards and professional integrity.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including bonus potential and a comprehensive benefits offering.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our client is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and dignity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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