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.