Head of Finance and Operations (Remote)

The Operations Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing UNC’s plant-level finance activities. This includes financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, product costing, variance analysis, audit coordination, and compliance. The role ensures strong financial controls are maintained and partners closely with plant leadership to support strategic decision-making through robust financial analysis and reporting. Our finance organization is in a period of transformation, and the successful candidate will be expected to challenge the status quo and help drive continuous improvement across processes and systems.

This role supports three fluid milk facilities (Buffalo NY, Syracuse NY, and Williamsport NY). Role can be seated in Henrietta, Batavia, Syracuse, or Buffalo with two days remote. Travel rotation is required to the three plants to drive operational success. Car allowance provided.

Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.

Prepare weekly prime cost variance analysis in partnership with Operations and CI.

Analyze financial results, variances, and trends, providing insights and recommendations to leadership.

Ensure timely and accurate reporting in compliance with GAAP.

Budgeting & Forecasting Develop, coordinate, and manage annual budgeting and monthly forecasting processes.

Collaborate with department leaders to monitor financial performance against budget.

Identify and drive opportunities for cost savings, efficiency gains, and process improvements.

Compliance Coordinate or support internal and external audits, ensuring auditors have the necessary information and documents.

Own site-level audit requests as applicable (e.g., inventory, spare parts).

Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and reporting standards.

Ensure site-level compliance with internal controls and accounting policies.

Strategic Partnership Serve as the key financial partner to plant leadership teams, being the onsite voice of the finance organization.

Support the broader Supply Chain Finance team, including providing coverage/support/mentorship.

Communicate financial insights effectively to stakeholders to support decision alignment.

Strengthen financial literacy and acumen among cross-functional partners.

Other Responsibilities Manage three direct reports, fostering engagement and growth.

Perform additional responsibilities as required to support evolving business needs.

Qualifications: Education & Experience Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field; dairy manufacturing experience preferred.

5-7 years of relevant experience in cost accounting, cost control, or financial analysis.

Skills In-depth knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting standards, and relevant regulations.

Proficient in ERP environment (SAP preferred) and advanced Excel skills.

Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to collaborate with Operations.

Proven ability to interact with stakeholders at all levels and present financial information in a clear and concise manner.

Actual compensation may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, training, knowledge, education, and overall qualifications. Other components of the total rewards package may include participation in group health and/or dental insurance, retirement plan, wellness program, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.

Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

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