Regional R&D Controller

Our Automotive Technology business is passionate about the automotive industry and produces and markets high-tech automotive components worldwide. With over 20,000 employees, we are responsible for the success of this business. Our product and service range includes chassis technologies such as steering and damper systems, axle systems, and powertrain components for conventional and alternative engines. We also develop assembly systems for body-in-white construction and produce lightweight car body components in series.

thyssenkrupp Presta North America is a global leader in automotive components technology and the leading steering systems supplier for the automotive industry. With locations in Terre Haute, Indianapolis, and Troy, Michigan, we employ over 450 people across manufacturing, procurement, engineering, sales, and logistics.

About the role

The Regional R&D Controller oversees financial planning, analysis, and reporting to support strategic decision-making. This role ensures accurate budgeting and forecasting, monitors financial performance, and drives corrective actions. By managing financial risks, optimizing processes, and aligning cross-functional goals, the position plays a key role in sustaining the organization’s financial health and long-term success.

Responsibilities

• P&L responsibility for the USMCA Region R&D cost for tK Bilstein Motion Solutions automotive division (Steering and Suspension).
• Implement harmonized and standardized processes across multiple sites in the region, supported by governance from European headquarters.
• Conduct detailed financial analysis to support business decisions and prepare comprehensive reports for management, highlighting key financial metrics and performance.
• Develop, manage, and monitor annual budgets and forecasts (Budget, MTP, EST), report on variances, and provide insights and recommendations for adjustments.
• Report variances against budget to responsible management, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
• Support strategic planning initiatives with financial modeling and analysis, evaluate the financial implications of new business opportunities, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to align financial goals with business strategies.
• Identify and assess financial risks and opportunities, develop risk mitigation strategies, and monitor their effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and standards.
• Identify areas for process improvement, implement best practices, and streamline financial processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Lead or participate in finance-related projects and initiatives.
• Act as a liaison between finance and other departments, communicating financial insights and recommendations to non-financial stakeholders.
• Maintain and analyze large datasets to support financial analysis, utilizing financial software and tools for data analysis and reporting.
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy in financial systems.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls and financial policies, support internal and external audit processes, and implement audit recommendations to ensure continuous compliance.
• Calculate annual development cost rates for capitalization in accordance with IFRS.
• Manage SAP ERP finance controlling cost centers, internal orders, and allocations.
• Manage intercompany service sales, identify the corresponding recipient regions, and reconcile with the incurred costs.
• Collaborate with IT and data teams to enhance automation and digital transformation initiatives within finance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree preferred).
• At least three to five years of related experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• SAP experience required.

Pay

Salary range: $115,000–$130,000 based on experience.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Paid Company Holidays.
• Comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and prescription coverage.
• Employee assistance program, as well as optional accident and hospital coverage.
• Company-paid basic vision insurance.
• Short-term disability and basic life insurance.
• Generous 401k matching program.
• Ample opportunities for advancement within the company.