Finance Manager

Finance Manager

Knoxville, TN

Full Time

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, CMA, or MBA 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