Operations Finance Manager

Join the Our Talent Network•Batavia, NY

21h•$80,000 - $100,000

About The Position

Join a team that nourishes life from farm to table! Upstate Niagara Cooperative, proudly owned by 200+ local family farms, is one of America’s largest and most stable dairy cooperatives. Guided by farmer- and employee-led values, we process and market high-quality milk, yogurt, dips, sour cream, cottage cheese, and more under our trusted brands: Upstate Farms®, Bison®, Milk for Life®, and Intense Milk®. Here, you’ll support sustainable farming, strong communities, and the mission to deliver fresh, local dairy to families every day. The Operations Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing UNC’s plant-level finance activities. This includes financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, product costing, variance analysis, audit coordination, and compliance. The role ensures strong financial controls are maintained and partners closely with plant leadership to support strategic decision-making through robust financial analysis and reporting. Our finance organization is in a period of transformation, and the successful candidate will be expected to challenge the status quo and help drive continuous improvement across processes and systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Prior experience in manufacturing; dairy manufacturing experience preferred.
5–7 years of relevant experience in cost accounting, cost control, or financial analysis.
In-depth knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting standards, and relevant regulations.
Proficient in ERP environment (SAP preferred) and advanced Excel skills.
Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to collaborate with Operations.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Proven ability to interact with stakeholders at all levels and present financial information in a clear and concise manner.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in manufacturing; dairy manufacturing experience preferred.
Proficient in ERP environment (SAP preferred)

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Analysis Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
Prepare weekly prime cost variance analysis in partnership with Operations and CI.
Analyze financial results, variances, and trends, providing insights and recommendations to leadership.
Ensure timely and accurate reporting in compliance with GAAP.
Successfully ensure plant monthly close adheres to the corporate schedule.
Work closely with Cost team to maintain accurate standards and ABC model.
Budgeting & Forecasting Develop, coordinate, and manage annual budgeting and monthly forecasting processes.
Collaborate with department leaders to monitor financial performance against budget.
Identify and drive opportunities for cost savings, efficiency gains, and process improvements.
Compliance Coordinate or support internal and external audits, ensuring auditors have the necessary information and documents.
Own site-level audit requests as applicable (e.g., inventory, spare parts).
Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and reporting standards.
Ensure site-level compliance with internal controls and accounting policies.
Strategic Partnership Serve as the key financial partner to plant leadership teams, being the onsite voice of the finance organization.
Support the broader Supply Chain Finance team, including providing coverage/support/mentorship.
Partner with Supply Chain and Sales on inventory and cost opportunities.
Communicate financial insights effectively to stakeholders to support decision alignment.
Promote a culture of budget accountability and awareness across functional teams.
Strengthen financial literacy and acumen among cross-functional partners.
Other Responsibilities Manage two direct reports, fostering engagement and growth.
Perform additional responsibilities as required to support evolving business needs.