Financial Controller

Serve Talent; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A major production company is seeking a Plant Financial Controller in Norwich, Norfolk. This role is critical in driving financial performance and operational efficiency, requiring expertise in financial planning and reporting. Candidates must have over 8 years in manufacturing finance, strong communication skills, and fluency in Mandarin for international collaboration. Join a motivated team and make a significant impact in a flourishing manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• 8+ years’ experience in a manufacturing finance role.
• Capability to present financial information clearly.
• High levels of integrity and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Developing and managing annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Conducting variance analysis and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Preparing financial reports, including income statements.
• Implementing and improving internal controls.
• Supporting supply chain teams with cost analysis and logistics.

Skills

Fluency in Mandarin

Strong ERP experience

Excellent Excel skills

Strong communication abilities

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Finance, Accounting, or related discipline

Tools

SAP FI/CO

Microsoft Office

Job description

Plant Financial Controller

Location: Norwich, Norfolk
Employment Type: Full time
Salary: Competitive

Are you an experienced financial leader with strong manufacturing experience? This is an excellent opportunity to join a major production site as a key member of the management team, responsible for driving financial performance, improving operational efficiency, and supporting strategic decision‑making across the plant. As this role supports international stakeholders, fluency in Mandarin is essential.

What you’ll be doing:

Financial Planning & Reporting

• Developing and managing annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Conducting detailed variance analysis to compare actuals against budget and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Preparing accurate financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Ensuring compliance with financial regulations and reporting standards.
• Implementing, improving, and maintaining strong internal controls.
• Coordinating internal and external audits and supporting the implementation of audit actions.

Operational & Production Support

• Analysing production and operational data to highlight inefficiencies, scrap levels, rework, and productivity issues.
• Working closely with operational managers to improve OEE, efficiency, and cost control.
• Evaluating the financial impact of supply chain and procurement decisions.
• Supporting supply chain teams with cost analysis, supplier negotiations, and logistics optimisation.
• Leading and supporting cost‑reduction initiatives, including lean manufacturing improvements.
• Overseeing inventory accuracy, participating in stock counts, and analysing turnover and obsolescence.
• Assessing capital expenditure proposals, carrying out ROI calculations, and advising on investment decisions.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Acting as the financial liaison across multiple departments to ensure accurate decision‑making.
• Leading regular financial performance reviews with operational and management teams.
• Supporting new product development activities, including costing, pricing strategy, and profitability analysis.

What we’re looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years’ experience in a manufacturing finance role.
• Strong ERP experience, SAP FI/CO preferred.
• Excellent Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
• Strong communication abilities, with the capability to present financial information clearly.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Fluency in Mandarin (essential) due to international communication requirements.

Why apply?

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a measurable impact within a major manufacturing environment. You will work as part of a motivated and international team, enjoy strong career development prospects, and play a key role in driving financial performance and operational success.

Interested in applying?

Call Lewis Woollard directly on (phone number removed) or email (url removed) with your CV.