Finance Manager

Finance Manager, Cost Optimization

• Onsite in Knoxville, TN
• Direct Hire
• $145,000-175,000/yr + 15% Bonus

POSITION PURPOSE

The Finance Manager, Cost Optimization serves as a key business partner to plant leadership (Quality, Supply Chain, Operations), supporting financial performance through cost analysis, reporting, and decision support.

This role is responsible for delivering accurate and timely financial reporting (Budget, Actuals, Forecast), identifying cost optimization opportunities, and supporting execution of cost reduction initiatives to improve profitability and operational efficiency.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Business Partnering

• Partner with plant functional leaders to provide financial insights and support operational decision-making.
• Translate financial results into actionable recommendations to improve cost performance and profitability.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Prepare and analyze monthly department-level P&Ls (Budget, Actuals, Forecast).
• Support development of annual budgets and rolling forecasts.
• Perform variance analysis and identify key cost drivers.

Cost Optimization

• Identify, evaluate, and support execution of cost reduction initiatives across the plant.
• Analyze material, labor, and overhead costs; recommend efficiency improvements.
• Track and report savings initiatives and performance against targets.

Performance Management

• Develop and monitor KPIs related to cost efficiency and operational effectiveness.
• Support management reporting with clear and concise financial insights.

Controls and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting policies, and audit requirements.
• Support internal and external audit activities.

Capital and Operations Support

• Assist in capital investment analysis (ROI, payback, business case development).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on continuous improvement initiatives.

Reporting

• Prepare and present financial results and insights to plant leadership and finance management.

COMPETENCY OR POSITION REQUIREMENTS (knowledge, skills, and abilities)

Knowledge

• Strong foundation in FP&A, cost accounting, and manufacturing finance
• Understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
• Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and reporting tools

Skills

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Strong Excel and financial modeling skills
• Ability to synthesize complex data into clear business insights
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority

Abilities

• Ability to operate in both a hands-on and analytical capacity
• Strong business acumen with operational orientation
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated ability to support cost optimization and process improvements
• Detail-oriented with strong focus on accuracy and controls

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (required levels)

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field required
• CPA or CMA required

Experience

• 6–10 years of progressive finance experience, preferably in manufacturing or plant environment
• Experience in cost accounting and FP&A required
• Prior experience supporting cost reduction or operational performance initiatives
• Experience working with cross-functional teams in an operational setting