Job type: Permanent Location: Wrightbus Closing date: Friday 30 May 2025 08:00 The Job Summary: Wrightbus is the fastest growing production company in Europe. We are recruiting for a Manufacturing Controller to who will work closely with the COO and Manufacturing leadership to provide critical financial insights, drive the efficiency improvements required to keep the business competitive, and ensure cost control while supporting strategic decision-making. As the lead Manufacturing Finance person, the Controller will also help develop and coordinate finance activities at other Wrightbus manufacturing sites. The Role: Financial Planning and Control: Lead budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting for Manufacturing Operations. Use the processes to ensure strategic alignment with the company's goals and to highlight opportunities and risks. Develop existing KPIs as appropriate and provide variance analysis, identifying cost drivers and improvement opportunities. Monitor and control manufacturing costs, including material, labour and overhead expenses. Operational and Cost Management: Implement and maintain cost accounting systems, ensuring accurate cost allocation. Partner with production teams to identify and track the implementation of efficiency improvements. Support lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement programs. Oversee inventory valuation, working capital and waste reduction strategies. Decision Support and Strategic Initiatives: Provide financial insights to support pricing, investment and operational decisions. Stress-test manufacturing assumptions supporting growth actions. Assess the financial viability of capital expenditure projects. Collaborate with procurement and engineering teams to improve cost structures - e.g. make vs buy studies. Compliance and Internal Controls: Ensure compliance with accounting standards and company policies. Lead monthly accounting close process for Manufacturing. Establish and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure accurate reporting. Coordinate with external auditors for the year-end audit and resolve any recommendations. Systems and Process Improvements: Ensure financial systems and processes are robust, efficient, and scalable. Drive process improvements, including automation of reporting and transactional tasks. Evaluate and recommend financial tools to enhance reporting accuracy and timeliness. Active engagement in roll-out of future ERP system. Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. The Requirements: Chartered Accountant ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent. At least 3 years PQE. Experience of having influenced senior leadership as a finance business partner essential Experience of providing financial leadership in a Manufacturing environment. Up to date computer skills including MS Office and advanced Excel skills. Significant analytical skillset, including the utilisation of BI and reporting tools. The Benefits: 4% bonus Life Insurance Medicash scheme Discount with local businesses e.g. Galgorm Spa Resort and McAtamney's. Free car parking Canteen Career progression Professional development Flexitime wbstaff To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process click the Continue to Application or Login/Register to apply button below.