Finance Business Partner (Manufacturing)

TL;DR

Finance Business Partner (Manufacturing): Providing financial insight and strategic support to operational functions at a manufacturing site with an accent on cost optimization and World Class Manufacturing (WCM) methodologies. Focus on driving business performance, managing budgets, and influencing strategic decision-making through robust financial analysis.

Location: Must be based in Preston, UK

Company

A leading manufacturer of residential and commercial heating and hot water solutions, committed to the energy transition to zero carbon.

What you will do

• Provide financial support and challenge to functional heads of Maintenance, Quality, and Technical teams.
• Drive cost optimization through WCM Cost Deployment methodologies.
• Deliver meaningful financial analysis connecting performance to operational strategies.
• Lead monthly manufacturing forecast processes and annual budgeting.
• Ensure financial decisions align with business strategy while maintaining strong controls.
• Validate cost-saving initiatives and perform variance analysis against budgets.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) or qualified by experience.
• Previous experience in a Finance Business Partner or commercial finance role.
• Strong financial analysis, budgeting, and reporting skills.
• Experience partnering with operational stakeholders and influencing decision-making.
• Advanced Excel and financial modelling capabilities.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Nice to have

• Manufacturing or engineering sector experience.
• Experience working within a standard costing environment.
• Knowledge of World Class Manufacturing (WCM), Lean Manufacturing, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Exposure to capital investment appraisal and project business case development.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive basic salary plus variable incentive.
• 25 days holiday plus UK Bank Holidays.
• Contributory Pension Scheme and Income Protection.
• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, and Sick Pay Schemes.
• Access to an employee benefits platform and staff discounts.
• Opportunities for career development within a global group.