The Newcastle Search Group, LLC ยท 1 day ago
Global Director of Operations Finance & North American Controller
The Newcastle Search Group is assisting a publicly held global manufacturing organization in hiring a Global Director of Operations Finance & North American Controller. This role will lead financial reporting, planning, and analysis across global manufacturing operations, partnering closely with various teams to drive profitability and operational performance.
Responsibilities
Ensure accurate and timely reporting of global operations financial results in compliance with US GAAP, company policies, and internal controls
Oversee monthly close, consolidations, and financial statement preparation for manufacturing operations worldwide
Monitor working capital, inventory management, and cost drivers to optimize cash flow and profitability
Lead development of the annual business plan, strategic plan, and rolling forecasts across plants and regions
Provide insights that explain variances and trends, translating complex analysis into clear, actionable recommendations for leadership
Build advanced reporting dashboards to enhance real-time financial visibility
Partner with Operations leaders and Plant Controllers to analyze standard costing, manufacturing variances, and plant-level performance
Support S&OP processes, challenge assumptions, and drive operational efficiency through data-driven decision making
Guide pricing and product profitability analysis with Product Managers, including modeling of fixed, semi-fixed, and variable costs
Direct, mentor, and develop plant controllers and regional finance teams to build financial acumen and ensure alignment with global standards
Champion standardization of financial reporting processes and policies across global operations
Drive continuous improvement in accounting processes, internal controls, and scalability to support growth and M&A integration
Qualification
Required
Strong finance and accounting expertise, including absorption costing and manufacturing cost analysis
Proven ability to partner with operations leaders to influence decisions and improve performance
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills
Advanced Excel skills; ERP proficiency, SAP is required
Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to explain financial concepts to non-financial leaders
Strong leadership, coaching, and change management capabilities across global teams
Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required
Minimum 15 years of progressive finance/accounting experience in a global manufacturing environment
At least 5 years of leadership/supervisory experience
Preferred
MBA and/or CPA strongly preferred
Experience with M&A integration and global financial operations is a plus
Benefits
Relocation assistance will be provided for individuals outside of the greater Chicago area.
Company
The Newcastle Search Group, LLC
The Newcastle Search Group is the relationship-based search firm that matches top-notch finance and accounting professionals with their best-fit companies, ensuring mutually beneficial partnerships and fulfilling careers.