Finance Manager - Manufacturer - Chicago, IL

Finance Manager

I'm currently partnered with a multi-million-dollar manufacturer that is continuing to grow its team and is adding a newly created Finance Manager position. This role will be based in the greater Chicago area and offers a primarily remote work environment, with minimal travel to surrounding locations as needed. Reporting directly to the CFO, this person will partner closely with Finance, Operations, Shared Services, IT, and other business leaders across the organization. The Finance Manager will focus on driving process improvements, standardizing workflows, tracking KPIs, and leading automation initiatives to improve efficiency across the finance function. This is a highly visible position that will play a critical role in enhancing reporting, budgeting, and planning processes while helping the organization make more data-driven business decisions.

Job Description

Finance Manager Responsibilities:

• Partner with finance and operational leaders to identify opportunities to improve, standardize, and automate core finance processes.
• Lead process improvement and transformation initiatives focused on driving efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Analyze existing workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions that enhance overall performance.
• Develop and track KPIs to measure process effectiveness and monitor improvement efforts.
• Support enhancements and optimization of financial systems, reporting tools, and automation technologies.
• Drive automation projects that reduce manual work and improve data visibility across the organization.
• Utilize data analytics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for operational improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new processes and ensure successful adoption.
• Partner with stakeholders across multiple locations to improve consistency in reporting, controls, and finance operations.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while communicating progress and results to leadership.
• Track and report measurable improvements related to productivity, efficiency, and business performance.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.

The Successful Applicant

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field required.
• Prior manufacturing industry experience required.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or hands-on continuous improvement experience required.
• Strong background in process improvement, automation, and operational efficiencies.
• Previous leadership, mentorship, or people management experience preferred.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Experience partnering with both finance and operational stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and drive initiatives in a fast-paced environment.

What's on Offer

• Competitive compensation package plus bonus opportunity.
• Primarily remote position with excellent flexibility and only occasional travel to nearby locations.
• Strong team-oriented culture with supportive leadership.
• Significant opportunity for career growth and long-term advancement.
• Newly created role with high visibility and the ability to make a meaningful impact on the organization.
• Direct exposure to executive leadership, including the CFO.
• Opportunity to lead transformational initiatives and help shape the future of the finance function.
• Comprehensive benefits package including PTO, healthcare, and 401(k).