I am sara, an executive consultant, with over 20 years of experience in executive recruitment and consulting for top-tier companies.projekts is proud to collaborate with international clients, including (fortune 500 companies), operating in more than 20 countries worldwide.plant controller – automotive the plant controller is responsible for overseeing all financial activities of the plant, ensuring accuracy in reporting, strong cost control, and effective support to operational decision-making.this role acts as a key business partner to the plant manager and leadership team, helping drive profitability, efficiency, and compliance.key responsibilities lead all plant finance activities, including budgeting, forecasting, monthly closing, and financial reporting.monitor plant performance versus budget, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions.manage standard costing, product costing, and manufacturing variance analysis.oversee inventory valuation, cycle counts, and reconciliation of raw materials, wip, and finished goods.support plant operations by analyzing labor, overhead, scrap, and productivity trends.ensure compliance with internal controls, corporate policies, and accounting standards.coordinate and support internal and external audits.prepare business cases and financial analysis for investment projects, cost reduction initiatives, and operational improvements.partner with operations, supply chain, production, and engineering teams to improve plant performance.supervise and develop plant finance staff, where applicable.required qualifications bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.5+ years of experience in finance or controlling, ideally in an automotive or manufacturing environment.strong knowledge of cost accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.experience with erp systems and advanced excel skills.good understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory control, and plant kpis.strong communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally.high level of accuracy, business acumen, and problem-solving ability.preferred qualifications experience in tier 1 or tier 2 automotive manufacturing.knowledge of sap or similar erp systems.cpa, cma, or equivalent certification.experience supporting lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives.core competencies financial leadership.analytical thinking.business partnering.cost discipline.operational awareness.integrity and confidentiality.leadership and influence.