Plant Controller

Kaiser Aluminum is known around the world for its superior quality. Our secret is what we put into it—innovative thinking, industry-leading reliability, and a world-class commitment to customer service. In short, the same qualities we look for in our people. We are looking for a Plant Controller to join Kaiser Aluminum in Bellwood, Virginia! 

The Plant Controller will be responsible for the accounting, financial planning and analysis as well as facilitating various other activities supporting an aluminum extrusion manufacturing facility.  As part of this responsibility the Plant Controller will ensure timely preparation of financial and performance reports, accurate cost accounting practices, annual planning activities, insightful financial analysis and maintaining a strong control & compliance of all applicable accounting processes as required by a facility of a public reporting entity.  The successful candidate needs to be regarded as a trusted advisor for the plant manager, to help set and execute strategy for the facility while maintaining strong communications with corporate and regional management.  Adherence to and implementation of corporate accounting and planning processes is critical for success. 

What you will work on:

• Full responsibility for all plant financial processes and matters. Specifically including preparation and monitoring of a manufacturing cost strategy; direct participation and ownership of the business/financial plan preparation; cost measurement and control; cost accounting; internal controls and compliance; asset management; capital project tracking; and routine preparation of monthly/quarterly financial reports.
• Being a true business partner to the plant leadership staff to improve business effectiveness.
• Actively identify & driving implementation of cost savings and process improvements opportunities.
• Conduct financial analysis on results and proposed investments.
• Analyzing profit trends and recommending manufacturing strategies.
• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting direct reports including the creation of comprehensive training and succession plans.
• Educating plant personnel on key cost drivers, and their impact on business goals / performance.
• Liaison with internal and external auditors as well as other Corporate Finance personnel.
• Assure business is managed within the ‘Delegation of Authority’.
• Maintaining a good, positive working relationship with all salary and hourly associates, including those working under a collective bargaining agreement.
• Provide leadership and support in the implementation of the Kaiser Production System and employee involvement strategies.
• Assure compliance with all Corporate and internal control compliance reporting and control procedures as required for a public reporting entity.
• Leading directly and indirectly a myriad of team members across several support functions regarding best business practices.
• Actively partner in cross functional projects to ensure integrity and accuracy in processes and systems supporting the business.

What you will bring to the position:

• Five (5) years progressive experience in manufacturing accounting; Controller experience in a publicly held company strongly preferred.
• A bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Management or related business field is required for this position. CPA and/or CMA a plus.
• Participate as a key member of the facility leadership involved in an organizational change process, and/or organization turn around.
• Prior exposure to internal control & compliance (“SOX”).
• Experience with standard cost environments in manufacturing, including in-depth variance analysis.
• Prior exposure to a process industry with in-depth inventory accounting. LIFO accounting is a plus.
• Experience with managing accounting / business information systems is desired. Design and implementation of such systems a plus.
• LEAN manufacturing or similar cultural.
• Self-starter with proven time management skills.
• Professional and positive attitude in dealing with all organizational stakeholders and work teams.
• Strong desire to help educate and develop individuals on financial principles and accounting requirements.
• Strong managerial presence that reflects a “hands-on”, participative, pro-active operating style.
• Must be willing to occasionally travel.
• Able to grow and expand capabilities with potential for future advancement.
• Ability to process complex information quickly and efficiently.
• Ability to be flexible and create innovative solutions.
• Ability to effectively resolve conflict at all levels of the organization.
• Strong analytical skills, including excel modeling.
• Ability to balance multiple needs and tasks in performing duties.
• Ability to think and work independently.
• PC proficiency including Word, Excel, and Power Point.
• Ability to work with large datasets using tools like Access, Power Query/BI, and Alteryx; OR working knowledge of SQL/relational databases.
• Strong managerial and organizational skills.
• Strong communications and presentation skills including written and oral skills.

  PERFORMANCE FACTORS 

• Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time and is seldom absent from work. The employee can be relied upon to complete work promptly, accurately, and thoroughly and is conscientious about assignments.
• Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Company.
• Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others at all levels of the organization, both internally and externally.  The employee exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Approximately 80% of the job function is performed in an office setting requiring normal safety precautions. 20% of the job function is required in the plant. There is exposure to operating machinery and a manufacturing environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS      

• This position requires performing tasks on a computer.
• There will be periods of walking and standing. 
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and climb or balance.
• The employee is occasionally required to reach with arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk and hear.
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

No third-party candidate submissions are being accepted at this time for this opening.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications and abilities.  There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

About Kaiser Aluminum: Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing an inclusive culture.