Director of Finance, Cost Optimization (with APAR Oversight)

POSITION PURPOSE

The Finance Director, Cost Optimization serves as a strategic business partner to the CAT plant leadership team (i.e., Quality, Supply Chain, Operations). This role is responsible for driving financial performance through rigorous cost management, insightful financial reporting, and proactive decision support. The position leads the development and delivery of department level monthly financial reporting (Budget, Actuals, Forecast), identifies and executes cost reduction initiatives, and ensures strong financial controls. Additionally, the role provides leadership and oversight to Accounts Receivable (AR) and Accounts Payable (AP) functions to support efficient and accurate financial operations.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Partner with plant functional leaders (e.g., Quality, Supply Chain, Operations) to provide financial insights and support strategic decision-making.
• Lead the preparation and analysis of monthly department level P&Ls, including Budget, Actuals, and Forecast, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
• Develop and maintain robust forecasting and budgeting processes aligned with business objectives.
• Identify, evaluate, and drive cost optimization and cost reduction initiatives across the plant.
• Analyze cost drivers, variances, and operational performance; provide actionable recommendations to improve profitability.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cost efficiency and operational effectiveness.
• Ensure strong financial controls and compliance with company policies and accounting standards.
• Oversee Accounts Receivable (AR) and Accounts Payable (AP) functions, ensuring timely collections, payments, and process efficiency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop AR/AP team members to enhance performance and engagement.
• Support capital investment analysis, including ROI and payback assessments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Present financial results and insights to senior leadership in a clear and concise manner.

COMPETENCY OR POSITION REQUIREMENTS (knowledge, Skills, And Abilities)

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of financial planning & analysis (FP&A), cost accounting, and manufacturing finance.
• Knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis processes.
• Familiarity with financial systems, ERP platforms, and reporting tools.

Skills

• Advanced analytical and problem‑solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to translate complex financial data into actionable business insights.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, particularly in overseeing AR/AP functions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and advanced Excel (or equivalent tools).

Abilities

• Ability to operate as a hands‑on leader while maintaining a strategic perspective.
• Strong business acumen and ability to partner effectively with non‑finance leaders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Proven ability to drive change and lead cost optimization initiatives.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (required Levels)

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field required; MBA or CPA/CMA required.
• Minimum of 8–12 years of progressive finance experience, preferably in a manufacturing or plant environment.
• Demonstrated experience in cost accounting, financial planning & analysis, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Prior experience in a leadership role with direct management of finance staff, including AR/AP teams.
• Proven track record of partnering with operations and functional leaders to drive financial performance.