Finance Plant Controller

Description:

We are seeking an experienced and commercially focused Finance Plant Controller to join our manufacturing operation in Leeds, UK. This is a critical leadership position combining financial control, plant accounting, business partnering, operational finance, planning and forecasting, and data analytics.

The Plant Controller will act as a key member of the site leadership team, providing financial insight and challenge to drive operational performance, productivity, margin improvement, working capital management, and strategic decision-making. The role requires a strong hands-on finance professional with advanced Excel skills and proven experience in developing Power BI dashboards and reporting solutions to support business performance.

The Role

Financial Leadership & Business Partnering

* Drive a culture of financial accountability across the plant.

Planning, Forecasting & Performance Management

* Lead the annual operating plan, forecasts, and monthly outlook processes for the site.

* Develop robust financial models to support business planning and scenario analysis.

* Partner with operational leaders to identify risks and opportunities against forecast.

* Deliver clear analysis of variances across revenue, manufacturing costs, labour, overheads, inventory, and working capital.

* Support capital investment evaluations and post-investment performance reviews.

Manufacturing Finance & Cost Control

* Own product costing, manufacturing variance analysis, and inventory accounting.

* Monitor material, labour, and overhead performance against standard costs.

* Analyse plant productivity, capacity utilisation, yield, and operational efficiency metrics.

* Lead inventory valuation reviews and physical inventory processes.

* Support initiatives to improve gross margin and operational profitability.

Accounting & Financial Control

* Provide local accounting support ensuring compliance with company policies and statutory requirements.

* Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities.

* Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial reporting.

* Maintain strong internal controls and compliance processes.

* Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and shared service teams as required.

* Drive continuous improvement within financial processes and controls.

Reporting & Data Analytics

* Design, develop, and maintain advanced Power BI dashboards and management reporting solutions.

* Automate reporting processes to improve visibility and decision-making.

* Translate operational and financial data into actionable business insights.

* Create KPI dashboards covering:

* Develop advanced Excel-based models to support planning, forecasting, and business analysis.

* Identify opportunities to simplify financial processes and increase automation.

Required Education & Qualifications

* CIMA/ACCA or equivalent qualifications

* Manufacturing background

* SAP experience

* Attention to detail

* KPI development and reporting

Benefits:

* Free parking

* On-site parking

Work Location: In person / Hybrid of 3 days in the office and 2 from home