Operations Controller - Finance Business Partner

Lantmännen Group; Bedford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Lantmannen in Bedford is seeking an Operations Controller to enhance our manufacturing operations. You'll be a hands-on finance leader, collaborating closely with the Site General Manager to drive performance and turn data into actionable insights.

The ideal candidate will have experience in operations finance within FMCG or manufacturing and strong stakeholder management skills. Join us to make a measurable impact in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations finance within FMCG or manufacturing.
• Ability to translate data into meaningful insight that drives decisions.
• Confident in stakeholder management and influencing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the standard costing and budgeting cycle.
• Deliver variance analysis and corrective actions.
• Build Excel models and BI tools for operational efficiency.

Skills

Analytical mindset

Stakeholder management skills

Understanding of standard costing

Strong communication skills

Experience in operations finance

Advanced Excel skills

Proactive, solutions-focused approach

Tools

Excel

Power BI

Job description

Have an appetite for more?

Join a leading global bakery group powered by ambitious people that are truly passionate about delivering the best in everything they do.

With business in mind and people at heart we always work together to influence our road ahead. We want you to be part of our growth journey and of a great, global family.

Reporting to: Head of Controllong

The Opportunity

We’re looking for an ambitious Operations Controller to play a pivotal role at the heart of our manufacturing operation.

This isn’t a passive reporting role—you’ll be a hands‑on finance leader, partnering directly with the Site General Manager and cross‑functional teams to drive performance, challenge thinking, and turn data into action.

You’ll combine deep analytical capability with the ability to build trusted stakeholder relationships, acting as a true co‑pilot to the business.

What You’ll Be Doing

Own the Numbers – and the Story Behind Them

• Lead the end-to-end standard costing and budgeting cycle, bringing clarity to material movements and performance trends
• Deliver robust variance analysis, identifying root causes and translating insight into tangible corrective actions
• Take ownership of month‑end reporting and performance commentary, ensuring accuracy and commercial relevance
• Build and enhance Excel models and BI tools to improve visibility on cost, waste and operational efficiency

Be a True Business Partner

• Act as a trusted advisor to operations, supporting delivery of site performance targets
• Work cross‑functionally with commercial, NPD and operations teams, connecting financial insight to business decisions
• Bridge the gap between finance and the wider business—ensuring financial data is understood, challenged and acted upon
• Influence stakeholders at all levels, balancing challenge with collaboration

Drive Continuous Improvement

• Champion a proactive, insight‑led approach to performance
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, reporting and decision‑making
• Support strategic and ad‑hoc projects that enhance operational efficiency and profitability

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, manufacturing environment and enjoys being close to the action.

You’ll Bring

• A hands‑on, analytical mindset—you’re comfortable getting into the detail and questioning the numbers
• Proven experience in operations finance within FMCG or manufacturing
• Strong understanding of standard costing and variance analysis
• The ability to translate data into meaningful insight that drives decisions
• Advanced Excel skills, with experience building models or dashboards (Power BI a bonus)

Equally Important

• Confident stakeholder management skills—you can influence, challenge and build credibility quickly
• Experience working in a business partnering role, supporting operational teams
• A proactive, solutions‑focused approach with the resilience to meet deadlines
• Strong communication skills—you can simplify complex financial information for non‑finance audiences

Why This Role Stands Out

• You’ll be embedded in the business, not sitting on the sidelines
• You’ll have real influence over operational performance and decision‑making
• You’ll combine technical finance expertise with commercial impact
• You’ll work in an environment where your insight drives change

If you’re looking for a role where you can roll up your sleeves, challenge the status quo, and make a measurable impact, we’d love to hear from you.