New Balance - EMEA Operations Controller - Warrington

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today. At New Balance, We Got Now.

JOB MISSION:

As the key Finance Business Partner specialising in Operations & Logistics, you will play a critical role in overseeing & managing the financial aspects of the Operations & Logistics function. Working closely with key stakeholders, including Operations Managers, Logistics Coordinators, and senior leadership, you will provide financial insights and support to optimize operational efficiency, improve cost-effectiveness, and drive profitability. This role requires a deep understanding of both financial principles and operational processes, as well as strong communication and collaboration skills to effectively bridge the gap between finance and operations.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Financial Analysis and Reporting:

• Conduct regular financial analysis to assess & provide insights into the performance of operations and logistics functions and identify areas for improvement.

• Prepare financial reports, including variance analysis and KIPs, to monitor & evaluate the company’s financial performance, highlighting key trends and insights.

• Develop and maintain financial models to support forecasting, budgeting, and decision-making processes.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Collaborate with operations and logistics teams to develop annual budgets as well as both short-term and long-range forecasts.

• Monitor actual performance against budgeted targets and provide variance analysis.

• Identify risks and opportunities and recommend adjustments to achieve financial goals.

Cost Management and Operational Efficiency:

• Partner with operations managers to analyse and optimize operational costs.

• Identify areas for cost reduction or process improvement initiatives, implement cost-control measures and monitor operational expenses to achieve financial objectives.

• Track cost-saving initiatives and assess their impact on financial performance.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline workflows and optimize resource allocation.

Inventory Management:

• Developing the regional inventory management strategy with the aim of controlling costs within budgetary limits, generating savings, rationalizing inventory and maximizing available working capital, implementing necessary improvement processes

• Minimising overstocks and removal of obsolete / redundant inventories to maximize availability of working capital

• Managing KPI’s and control measures to ensure red-flags or unusual trends are highlighted, addressed, and resolved

Business Partnership:

• Serve as a trusted advisor to operations and logistics leaders, providing financial insights and guidance; Participate in cross-functional meetings and projects to support strategic decision-making.

• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop financial plans aligned with operational objectives.

• Managing, coordinating, and coaching a small team of management accountants.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field; Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CPA, CFA) preferred.

• Proven experience (10+ years) in finance or accounting roles, with a focus on financial analysis and business partnering, preferably in a managerial role.

• Strong understanding of financial principles, regulations, and best practices as well as operational and logistical processes.

• Advanced proficiency in financial modeling, forecasting, and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, ERP systems).

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex financial concepts to non-finance stakeholders.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail and accuracy.

• Problem solvers collaborating with others in finding solutions to challenges as well as ways to improve processes or develop new methods in managing & balancing cost, efficiency and profitability.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Demonstrated ability to influence and build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

BENEFITS:

• Discretionary Bonus Opportunity.

• Private Medical Insurance.

• Dental Scheme.

• Pension Scheme.

• Flexible Working Hours (07:00 – 10:00 start, 15:00 -18:00 finish).

• Hybrid working (3 days on-site).

• 25 days Annual Leave per year.

• Life Insurance.

• On Site Gym.

• Employee Discount.

• Opportunity to work abroad for four weeks per year.

• Wellbeing and Mental Health Benefit (24/7 Employment Assistance Program & Support).

Equal Opportunity Employer:

New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment.  We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion.

If you have not already done so, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.