Finance Manager, Cost Optimization

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.

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.

• Experience
  CPA, CMA, or MBA required. 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.