Finance Manager

Finance ManagerKnoxville, TNFull TimePOSITION PURPOSEThe 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 RESPONSIBILITIESBusiness PartneringPartner 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 & AnalysisPrepare 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 OptimizationIdentify, 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 ManagementDevelop and monitor KPIs related to cost efficiency and operational effectiveness.Support management reporting with clear and concise financial insights.Controls and ComplianceEnsure compliance with internal controls, accounting policies, and audit requirements.Support internal and external audit activities.Capital and Operations SupportAssist in capital investment analysis (ROI, payback, business case development).Collaborate with cross-functional teams on continuous improvement initiatives.ReportingPrepare and present financial results and insights to plant leadership and finance management.COMPETENCY OR POSITION REQUIREMENTS (knowledge, skills, and abilities)KnowledgeStrong foundation in FP&A, cost accounting, and manufacturing financeUnderstanding of budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysisFamiliarity with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and reporting toolsSkillsAdvanced analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesStrong Excel and financial modeling skillsAbility to synthesize complex data into clear business insightsEffective communication and stakeholder management skillsAbility to influence cross-functional teams without direct authorityAbilitiesAbility to operate in both a hands-on and analytical capacityStrong business acumen with operational orientationAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentDemonstrated ability to support cost optimization and process improvementsDetail-oriented with strong focus on accuracy and controlsEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (required levels)EducationBachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field requiredCPA, CMA, or MBA requiredExperience6–10 years of progressive finance experience, preferably in manufacturing or plant environmentExperience in cost accounting and FP&A requiredPrior experience supporting cost reduction or operational performance initiativesExperience working with cross-functional teams in an operational setting