Lead Analyst, Plant Finance Services

Lead Analyst, Plant Finance Serve as a key finance partner supporting our Gentilly and Chef manufacturing plants. Own critical financial processes including month‑end close, budgeting, variance analysis, and audit support, while ensuring accuracy and compliance. Turn data into actionable insights—developing analytics and visualizations that drive operational performance and continuous improvement. This is a high‑impact role for a detail‑oriented, collaborative finance professional who thrives in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Location: New Orleans, LA Work Arrangements: Onsite 100% (M‑F) In this role you will Provide finance support for Gentilly and Chef manufacturing plants Prepare monthly journal entries and support financial close Analyze and reconcile assigned Balance Sheet accounts Ensure compliance with GAAP and corporate policies for assigned responsibilities Participate in business planning; prepare and coordinate the annual budget with plant manager Participate in annual manufacturing standard reviews for assigned locations Review/analyze monthly manufacturing variances Review/analyze monthly cost center variances Maintain and document monthly controls for internal audits Support external audits on quarterly and annual basis Provide KPI analysis for monthly financial review Drive key priorities and initiatives Identify areas of improvements and standardization Develop plant analytics and visualizations to add value to manufacturing decisions What we are looking for Minimum Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance 4+ years of financial analysis or accounting experience Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) Financial planning and forecasting ownership Highly organized and hold high standards of accuracy and precision Analytical and problem‑solving skills Strong communication and relationship building skills Additional skills and experiences that we think would make someone successful in this role: Experience supporting financial activity for an operations facility Ability to work in a diverse and fast paced environment Ability to make sound business decisions that have a positive impact on the company MBA, CPA, CMA, or other advanced degree or certification We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr The J.M. Smucker Co.