A manufacturing facility in Richmond, Virginia, is seeking a seasoned financial leader to step into a critical Plant Controller role. This Senior Finance Manager job in Richmond, VA, is designed for a professional capable of bridging the gap between complex floor operations and corporate financial strategy, offering a permanent, onsite position with a salary range between $145,000 and $160,000 per year.
The role centers on the total oversight of financial operations within the facility. Beyond traditional accounting, the position requires a strategic partner who can collaborate with plant leadership to drive operational efficiency, implement rigorous cost strategies, and ensure strict compliance with corporate and regulatory standards. It is a high-stakes position where financial analysis directly informs capital investments and long-term business planning.
Richmond remains a vital hub for the Virginia business community, with a diversified industrial base that continues to demand specialized expertise in process manufacturing. As companies in the region scale, the need for controllers who can manage standard cost environments and navigate the complexities of public reporting has intensified.
The Strategic Mandate of the Plant Controller
The primary objective for the incoming manager is the development and execution of comprehensive manufacturing cost strategies. This involves more than just tracking expenses; the role requires the implementation of accurate cost measurement tools and the creation of robust internal controls to maintain corporate standards.
A significant portion of the daily mandate involves leading the preparation of financial and business plans. The manager will be responsible for delivering monthly and quarterly reports that provide a transparent view of operational results. By identifying cost-saving initiatives and process improvement opportunities, the controller is expected to directly impact the facility’s bottom line.
the role serves as a vital educational link within the plant. The manager must be able to translate complex financial data into actionable insights for plant personnel, helping operational teams understand the key cost drivers that affect overall performance.
Core Responsibilities and Operational Focus
The scope of the position extends into both the granular and the global aspects of plant management. From mentoring a dedicated accounting team to acting as the primary liaison for internal and external auditors, the role demands a balance of leadership and technical precision.
Key operational priorities include:
- Asset Management: Overseeing capital project tracking to ensure that investments align with broader company objectives.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partnering with various departments to implement best practices and streamline business processes.
- Strategic Analysis: Providing the financial data necessary to support high-level decision-making regarding proposed investments.
Candidate Qualifications and Technical Requirements
The requirements for this position are specific, targeting a professional with a proven track record in high-pressure manufacturing environments. A minimum of three years of progressive experience in manufacturing accounting is required, with a strong preference for those who have operated within a publicly held company.
Technical proficiency in standard cost environments is non-negotiable. Candidates must demonstrate a deep understanding of variance analysis and inventory accounting, particularly within a process manufacturing context. This expertise is critical for maintaining the accuracy of financial reporting in an environment where raw materials and production cycles can fluctuate.
Educational credentials include a strong preference for a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Management. The facility is looking for a candidate who can optimize business information systems, with a particular advantage given to those who have experience in system design and implementation.
| Requirement Category | Minimum Specification | Preferred Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 3+ Years Manufacturing Accounting | Publicly Held Company Background |
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree (Related Field) | Advanced Finance/Accounting Degree |
| Technical Skill | Standard Costing & Variance Analysis | System Design & Implementation |
| Environment | Process Manufacturing | Public Reporting Compliance (SEC) |
Market Context: Finance Leadership in Richmond
The compensation package for this role—peaking at $160,000—reflects the specialized nature of plant controllership. In a city like Richmond, which is characterized by a blend of historic industry and modern logistics, the ability to manage “onsite” operations is highly valued. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Richmond’s economic landscape supports a wide array of professional services, making it a competitive market for high-level finance talent.
The “onsite” requirement of this position underscores the necessity of the controller being physically present to understand the nuances of the manufacturing floor. In process manufacturing, the distance between the ledger and the production line can lead to costly inaccuracies; a hands-on approach is viewed as a prerequisite for success.
For candidates, this role represents a significant opportunity to move into a leadership position where they have direct influence over both the culture of the accounting team and the operational efficiency of the plant.
Disclaimer: This article provides information regarding a professional job opportunity and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or career advisory services.
Interested professionals should ensure their credentials align with the specific requirements of public reporting and process manufacturing before applying. The next step for qualified candidates is to submit a detailed professional history highlighting their experience with variance analysis and cost strategies.
Do you have experience in Richmond’s manufacturing sector? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below.
