Plant Controller

SF Recruitment (Birmingham); Coventry; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A major recruitment firm is looking for a Site Financial Controller in Coventry to lead financial performance at a large manufacturing facility. In this pivotal role, you will manage a finance team, drive operational success, and ensure strong financial governance. Candidates should be fully qualified accountants with a degree in finance or business and significant experience in manufacturing environments. The role offers a mix of on-site and remote work.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in finance, ideally in a manufacturing or plant-based environment.
• Automotive sector experience is a plus but not essential.
• Experience with SOX compliance or audit required.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of financial reporting for the site.
• Manage month-end processes and perform variance analysis.
• Prepare and present budgets and forecasts.
• Drive improvements across working-capital KPIs.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a finance team.

Skills

Financial reporting

Variance analysis

Budget preparation

Stakeholder management

Analytical ability

Excel proficiency

Internal controls

Leadership

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

Degree in Finance, Business, or related field

Fully qualified accountant (minimum 5 years post‑qualification)

Tools

ERP / MRP systems

Job description

Financial Controller (Manufacturing Site)

4 days a week on-site and 1 day WFH

Are you ready to take the lead in driving financial performance at a major manufacturing facility? This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and fully qualified Finance professional to step into a pivotal plant-level leadership role within a global organisation known for innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence.

As the Site Financial Controller, you will act as a key business partner to the plant management team, ensuring strong financial governance, operational control, and the achievement of critical performance measures including sales, operating income, cash flow, inventory, and headcount targets.

You will lead a dedicated on-site finance team, champion continuous improvement, and ensure robust compliance with internal controls and regulatory standards.

What You’ll Be Doing

Lead all aspects of financial reporting for the site, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to internal deadlines.

Manage month‑end processes, including detailed variance analysis and performance commentary.

Prepare and present budgets and forecasts covering P&L, cash flow, and balance sheet.

Oversee plant performance reporting through financial systems and support the wider management team with actionable insights.

Drive improvements across working‑capital KPIs including receivables and payables.

Maintain and enhance internal controls, including SOX compliance and quarterly testing.

Partner closely with external and internal auditors for year‑end, interim, and control reviews.

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of finance professionals, supporting long‑term succession planning.

Manage twice‑yearly stock takes and ensure strong balance‑sheet reconciliation processes.

Conduct product profitability analysis and support operational decision‑making.

Complete ad‑hoc analysis and financial tasks to support site leadership.

What You’ll Bring

• Fully qualified accountant (minimum 5 years post‑qualification).
• Degree in Finance, Business, or related field.
• Strong finance experience within a manufacturing or plant‑based environment.
• Automotive sector experience desirable but not essential.
• Strong systems capability – experience with ERP / MRP systems advantageous.
• High level of Excel proficiency and strong analytical ability.
• Experience in internal controls, SOX compliance or audit.
• Proven ability to manage competing deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A team‑focused leadership style with a commitment to developing others.
• Continuous improvement mindset and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.

Why Join?

You’ll be part of a forward‑thinking organisation that invests in people, encourages innovation, and offers genuine opportunities for career development. If you are passionate about driving financial performance, influencing operational success, and leading a high‑performing team, this role offers the scope and impact you’re looking for.