Description

Plant controllers are accountable for the administration of a factory, for example, making financial statements, production cost statements, and forecasts of profits. Attention to detail and a strong understanding of math are essential in this job to create accurate reports and certain plant controllers supervise the accounting department of the plant. They can also review invoices as well as financial statements, and also check the labor reports, costs of materials overhead, distribution costs to ensure they are accurate.

Plant controllers have to ensure that they are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, and ensure the financial department employees are efficient. Skills in time management and the ability to supervise others are essential for this job as well as the fact that they could be accountable for the financial staff and other duties like payroll scheduling, arranging, and recruiting. It is essential that they stay up to date with the latest technology and trends, and computers are essential to be able to manage information and figure out efficient methods to save it electronically. Plant controllers could also be required to perform the responsibility of purchasing and must be capable of negotiating, working closely with vendors, talk about costs with management and assist in determining how expenses can be reduced. It is typically an all-time job performed during the day and a bachelor's degree in business or finance is usually required.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Plant Controller with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your primary responsibilities include:

  • Oversee plant financial operations, ensuring accuracy in financial reporting and adherence to regulatory requirements. Monitor financial transactions, prepare budgets, and analyze financial data to identify areas for improvement.
  • Implement and maintain internal control systems to safeguard the plant's assets and prevent financial fraud. Develop and enforce policies and procedures to ensure compliance with financial regulations and mitigate risks.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide financial insights and support decision-making processes. Work closely with operations, procurement, and sales departments to optimize costs, manage inventory, and maximize profitability.
  • Prepare and present financial reports and forecasts to senior management, providing actionable recommendations.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Plant Controller job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of financial accounting principles and standards to ensure accurate recording and reporting of financial transactions related to plant operations.
  • Strong analytical skills and attention to detail to analyze financial data, identify trends and variances, and provide insights to support decision-making processes.
  • Proficiency in financial planning and budgeting to develop and monitor plant budgets, forecasts, and cost control measures.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, procurement, and finance, and effectively communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders.

Essential Skills For Plant Controller

1

Budgeting

2

Financial Analysis

3

Ledger Accounting

Career Prospects

The role of Plant Controller, with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, is vital for overseeing financial operations within a manufacturing plant. For professionals looking to explore alternative roles, here are following options to consider:

  • Cost Accountant: A role that involves analyzing production costs, conducting cost audits, and providing recommendations to optimize expenses.
  • Operations Manager: A position focused on ensuring smooth plant operations, coordinating production activities, and implementing process improvements.
  • Supply Chain Analyst: A role that involves analyzing supply chain data, optimizing inventory levels, and identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
  • Financial Planning and Analysis Manager: A position focused on financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting, as well as providing financial insights to support decision-making.

How to Learn

The job role of Plant Controller in the United Kingdom is expected to witness significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, there is a projected increase in employment opportunities for this position. However, with the expanding manufacturing sector and the need for effective financial management, the demand for Plant Controllers is likely to rise. This growth can be attributed to industry advancements and the increasing importance of budgeting and financial planning within plant operations. Overall, the Plant Controller role is anticipated to offer promising career prospects in the coming years.