Role Overview
We are seeking a highly driven and operationally focused Finance Manager to lead the finance function within a automotive environment.
This role goes beyond traditional finance and acts as a key business partner to operations, driving cost efficiency, operational performance, and profitability across manufacturing sites.
Key Responsibilities
1. Business Partnering & Operational Finance
Translate operational KPIs into financial performance drivers
Monitor and challenge key metrics
Drive operational efficiency initiatives (Lean, Kaizen, continuous improvement)
Support decision-making on:
Make vs. Buy strategies
Capacity optimization & footprint decisions
Capex investments and ROI
2. Cost Control & Profitability Management
Lead standard costing processes and ensure cost accuracy across plants
Perform deep-dive variance analysis (material, labor, overhead)
Identify cost-saving opportunities and drive execution with operations
Ensure profitability at product, customer, and plant level
Support quoting processes and validate cost assumptions for new business
3. Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)
Lead budgeting, forecasting, and long-term planning processes
Align financial planning with operational capacity and demand scenarios
Provide actionable insights on performance gaps and improvement levers
Develop robust financial models to support strategic decisions
4. Capex & Investment Control
Evaluate and challenge investment proposals (production lines, automation, tooling)
Ensure strong ROI discipline and post-investment tracking
Partner with engineering and operations on industrial strategy
5. Cash Flow & Working Capital Management
Drive improvements in working capital (inventory, receivables, payables)
Optimize inventory levels in coordination with supply chain
Ensure strong cash flow visibility and forecasting
6. Governance, Reporting & Compliance
Ensure accurate, transparent, and timely financial reporting to Group
Manage monthly closing, reporting packages, and variance explanations
Maintain strong internal controls and compliance with group policies
Act as key interface with global finance teams and auditors
Key Requirements
Degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (MBA/CPA is a plus)
10+ years of experience in finance leadership roles within Automotive Tier 1 / manufacturing
Strong experience in plant controlling / operational finance
Deep understanding of manufacturing processes and cost structures
Proven track record in cost optimization and operational improvement
Experience working in an international environment with global reporting lines
Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
Success Indicators
Improved plant profitability and cost structure
Increased transparency of operational performance drivers
Strong alignment between finance and operations
Accurate and timely reporting to Group
Measurable impact on efficiency and cash flow