Plant Controller Manager

Job title : Plant Controller Manager (Durban West) Job Location : KwaZulu-Natal, Durban Deadline : December 20, 2025 Quick Recommended Links Jobs by Location Job by industries Description Operational & Manufacturing Finance Partner with Plant Operations, Supply Chain, and Procurement teams to improve overall financial and operational performance. Monitor capital expenditure (CapEx) and evaluate return on investment (ROI) for key projects. Support inventory valuation, working capital management, and stock optimization initiatives. Assist in developing pricing strategies through detailed cost structure and margin analysis. Maintain robust internal controls to safeguard assets and mitigate financial risks. Work across organizational boundaries and all levels of management to achieve plant and corporate objectives. Recommend best practices in financial management and operations, including process improvements, financial modeling, and policy changes. Cost Controlling & Optimization Monitor and analyze production, material, labor, and overhead costs across manufacturing plant and sales branches. Identify cost-saving opportunities (PIPs) and drive efficiency improvements in operations. Conduct variance analysis (actual vs. budget vs. forecast) and recommend corrective actions. Collaborate with Operations teams to optimize production processes, minimize waste, and improve productivity. Ensure accurate product costing, margin analysis, and standard cost updates. Support cost reduction initiatives in procurement and other overhead areas. Monitor and report purchase commitments and spending for all capital programs. Conduct follow-up audits to ensure compliance with approved capital investments and cost-saving measures. Financial Oversight & Internal Controls Develop and enforce strong internal controls to minimize theft, fraud, and financial misstatements. Conduct regular financial and compliance audits across all plants. Partner with Security and Internal Audit teams to monitor high-risk areas (e.g., warehouses, procurement, and cash transactions). Monitor cost variances, production efficiency, and material usage to identify anomalies or inefficiencies. Perform frequent walk-throughs of manufacturing operations with Plant Leadership to address costing and production issues. Conduct branch or retail store visits for verification of inventory and cash handling processes. Budgeting, Forecasting & Performance Management Oversee preparation of plant budgets, forecasts, and rolling financial plans. Consolidate plant-level financial performance and report to senior management. Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cost, efficiency, and profitability. Provide insights and recommendations to improve forecast accuracy and operational predictability. Leadership & Strategy Provide leadership and direction to Plant Controllers and finance teams across sites. Align plant financial objectives with overall corporate strategy and operational excellence targets. Act as key financial advisor to Plant Management and the Head of Finance. Develop team capabilities through coaching, mentorship, and structured performance reviews. Champion a culture of accountability, cost awareness, and continuous improvement. Systems & Data Integrity (SAP S / 4HANA) Ensure data integrity and accuracy in SAP S / 4HANA, particularly within Production, Costing, and Inventory modules. Lead continuous improvement initiatives in financial systems and reporting processes. Collaborate with IT and Finance teams to optimize system workflows and reporting accuracy. Requirements Preferred academic qualification : BCOM in Finance / Production Management or Equivalent General work experience (years) : 8–10 years’ experience in manufacturing or plant finance, including at least 3 years in a leadership role. Specific to the position (Level / discipline) : Proven working knowledge of SAP S / 4HANA , with hands on experience Production, costing and Maintenance Module (Prior ERP Administrator experience advantageous) Production / Manufacturing jobs #J-18808-Ljbffr