Finance Analyst – Manufacturing & Operations

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Finance Analyst III to join a global industrial company, focusing on supporting manufacturing and operational functions on an international scale. This role is perfect for finance professionals with a strong analytical background and a proven track record in collaborating with manufacturing and operations teams. The position involves financial planning, cost evaluation, and monitoring operational performance to aid business decisions aimed at increasing efficiency, profitability, and ongoing operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Operations teams to deliver financial analyses and decision support.
• Compile monthly reports on operational and financial performance, highlighting trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and long-term planning related to manufacturing operations.
• Conduct detailed analyses of manufacturing costs, including labor, overheads, inventory, and production variances.
• Track and report on vital financial and operational KPIs and suggest improvements.
• Support activities related to standard costing, cost roll processes, and assessing product costs.
• Evaluate capital expenditure projects, automation efforts, and initiatives focused on operational enhancement.
• Perform variance analysis contrasting actuals to forecasts and budgets, delivering actionable business insights.
• Guide inventory management, working capital evaluation, and cost-optimization projects.
• Work closely with Supply Chain, Procurement, and Operations teams to improve financial transparency and operational efficiency.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts aimed at refining financial reporting, process efficiency, and controls.
• Ensure adherence to internal financial policies, accounting standards, and corporate procedures.
• Contribute to month-end closing and financial reporting tasks.
• Develop business cases and financial models supporting strategic operational choices.
• Provide support for internal and external audit processes when necessary.

Candidate Profile

This role suits a proactive finance expert who enjoys operating in a manufacturing setting while partnering with operational stakeholders. The ideal candidate has sharp analytical capabilities, meticulous attention to detail, and a talent for translating financial information into actionable business insights. Comfort in a dynamic international environment and a passion for solving complex operational problems through data analysis are essential.

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum five years’ relevant experience in Finance, Controlling, FP&A, or Manufacturing Finance.
• Demonstrated experience in supporting manufacturing, operations, or supply chain areas.
• Solid knowledge of cost accounting, standard costing, and manufacturing finance concepts.
• Proficiency in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Strong analytical abilities and skills in financial modeling.
• Competence in analyzing manufacturing KPIs, operational metrics, and cost drivers.
• Understanding of inventory accounting and working capital management.
• Experience using ERP solutions such as SAP.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; familiarity with Power BI or other reporting tools is a plus.
• Knowledge of IFRS or US GAAP standards is beneficial.
• Fluency in English required; proficiency in German is advantageous.

Personal Attributes

• Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and ability to manage diverse stakeholders.
• Business-oriented mindset with a proactive and cooperative style.
• Highly organized and detail-focused.
• Capable of handling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines efficiently.
• Inquisitive and motivated to seek operational improvement opportunities.
• Team player dedicated to continuous improvement principles.
• Results-driven with a high standard of accountability and ethics.

Opportunity

This role places you centrally within a global manufacturing organization, collaborating directly with operations leaders to enhance financial outcomes and assist in strategic decision-making. It provides extensive exposure to manufacturing finance, operational excellence initiatives, and cross-department collaboration, contributing significantly to a successful international industrial enterprise.