Director, Manufacturing Finance

About the role

The Director of Manufacturing Finance is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the financial operations, planning, and analysis within the manufacturing function of Rocket Lab. This individual will act as a key business partner to the Chief Operations Officer and the manufacturing leadership team, driving financial performance, operational efficiency, and cost optimization across production facilities and supply chain operations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary financial advisor to the COO and the manufacturing leadership team, providing strategic guidance on cost management, capital investments, and operational efficiencies.
• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with manufacturing goals and overall business objectives.
• Lead financial planning and forecasting processes for manufacturing operations, ensuring accuracy and alignment with corporate targets.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed financial analyses, including cost variance analysis, production efficiency metrics, and profitability assessments.
• Maintain and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to manufacturing costs, inventory management, and supply chain performance.
• Present financial insights and recommendations to senior executives and stakeholders.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives across manufacturing operations, including labor, materials, overhead, and supply chain expenses.
• Collaborate with operations teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and waste reduction.
• Ensure accurate product costing to support profitability goals.
• Evaluate and prioritize capital investment opportunities in manufacturing facilities and equipment.
• Lead financial due diligence for new projects, ensuring alignment with ROI and payback criteria.
• Monitor capital expenditures and ensure adherence to budgets.
• Partner with plant managers and supply chain leaders to improve operational performance and financial outcomes.
• Provide financial expertise to support decisions related to production planning, inventory management, and procurement strategies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align financial goals with operational objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in finance, with a focus on manufacturing or supply chain operations.
• Proven track record of driving cost optimization initiatives.
• Experience in managing large-scale budgets and capital projects.
• Ability to travel occasionally to manufacturing facilities and supply chain locations.

Desired Qualifications

• MBA or CPA preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods.
• Review documents, view computer screens, and distinguish details at varying distances.
• Occasional exposure to production environments with moderate noise levels, dust, and fumes.

What to Expect

Rocket Lab is committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and supported. We believe in treating each other with respect, empathy, and inclusivity. We encourage open communication, continuous learning, and growth. We strive to create a workplace where every employee feels empowered to bring their best selves to work every day.

Important Information for Candidates

• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.
• For candidates seeking to work in New Zealand offices only, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.