Operations Finance Leader

Do you have a strong work ethic and the desire to join an organization that invests in its people through cross-training and development? ClarkDietrich fosters a work-life balance and offers competitive compensation and benefits. Join the ClarkDietrich team by applying to the Operations Finance Lead position at our West Chester, OH location.

The Operations Finance Lead will be responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the 16 manufacturing facilities across US & Canada, ensuring the efficient and effective management of financial activities. The role will manage a team of 6 plant controllers and partner closely with VP of Operations, plant leadership and corporate finance teams to drive financial performance, support operational decision-making, and ensure compliance with financial regulations.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a strong background in cost management, budgeting, financial analysis, and forecasting in a manufacturing or industrial setting.

* Financial Strategy and Planning:
o Lead the development of annual budgets, forecasts, and long-term financial plans for the plants.
o Provide strategic financial guidance to the plants' leadership teams, supporting business decisions and operational improvements.
o Conduct financial modeling to assess the impact of potential business scenarios.
* Financial Reporting and Analysis:
o Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for the plants.
o Perform detailed financial analysis and variance analysis to ensure alignment with budgets and forecasts.
o Review CAPEX proposals to ensure alignment with financial and operational goals and implement reporting mechanisms to track success.
o Deliver key financial insights to the management team, highlighting risks, opportunities, and trends.
o Ensure timely, accurate, and comprehensive reporting of financial performance to corporate stakeholders.
* Cost Control and Efficiency:
o Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements in plant operations.
o Lead efforts to monitor and reduce manufacturing costs, while maintaining product quality and operational performance.
o Implement and maintain robust cost accounting systems, ensuring accuracy in standard cost setting and tracking of actual costs.
o Manage inventory control, including working capital management and asset utilization.
* Internal Controls and Compliance:
o Ensure that all financial activities comply with relevant accounting principles, regulations, and company policies.
o Work closely with Corporate Accounting and audit teams to maintain a strong system of internal controls, ensuring financial integrity and minimizing risk.
o Lead efforts to implement and monitor compliance with SOX and other regulatory requirements.
* Team Leadership:
o Manage and develop the plant controllership team, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and continuous professional growth.
o Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the finance function.
o Provide mentorship, guidance, and training to team members.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration:
o Partner with plant operations, supply chain, and other departments to align financial goals with operational performance.
o Support key initiatives, such as S&OP, footprint optimization, cost reduction programs, productivity improvements, and capital projects.
o Assist in preparing financial presentations for senior management, board meetings, and external stakeholders.
* Up to 30% travel required

* Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
* At least 7 years of experience in finance, with a focus on manufacturing, cost accounting, or operations finance.
* Solid understanding of financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting processes.
* Experience with ERP systems (IFS a plus)
* Advance proficiency in Excel and Power Point.
* Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
* Strong communication skills, with the ability to present financial data to non-financial stakeholders.
* Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and work under tight deadlines.

* CPA, CMA, or similar professional certification
* Knowledge of SOX compliance and internal control practices
* Experience with S&OP processes and tools
* Familiarity with BI and master data management concepts
* Familiarity with data extraction, analysis, and visualization tools such as SQL, Power BI, Tableau
* Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies

* Ego-free, agenda-free approach
* Ownership mentality
* Strong problem-solving skills and proactive mindset
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
* Results-oriented with a focus on operational and financial efficiency
* Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across all levels of the organization
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
* Adaptability and willingness to learn and implement new tools and processes
* Business acumen and understanding of supply chain dynamics

Full benefits package (Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts and Life Insurance)
401(k) with company match
Annual Incentive
Paid Time Off
Tuition Reimbursement
Community Service Day