Factory Finance Controller (6-month contract)

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Controller, Factory Finance

Job Status: full-time, permanent

Work location: Suffolk, VA or Hoboken NJ preferred. May consider remote on the East Coast. 

Your role

The Suffolk Lipton Factory Finance Controller is an integral member of the plant leadership team and will report to the Head of Global Supply Chain Finance, with a dotted line to the Director of N.A. Supply Chain Finance.

You will be the Finance Business Partner for the site and together with the site leadership team will be responsible for financial management, guidance, and control of manufacturing costs/operations.

Your key responsibilities:

Budgeting and Performance Management:

• Responsible for delivery of the annual budgeting process for the factory in line with the global SC finance process, guidelines and timelines.
• Conduct variance analysis actual’s vs budget and prior year providing insights and recommendations for cost control and improvements.
• Work closely with Suffolk SC operational teams to understand cost drivers and optimize performance.
• Responsible for accurate forecasting to assist in decision-making and resource allocation.
• Partner big value site projects (capex proposals/transformation project delivery)
• Contribute to site-masterplans and decision-making on innovations, restructures or network business cases through deep understanding of site impacts and financials.

Month end:

• Responsible for end-to-end trial balance of the Suffolk legal entity and associated period end transaction processing.  

Balance sheet:

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the factory's balance sheet.
• Responsible for account reconciliations in collaboration with Global SC shared services, including fixed assets, inventory, and liabilities.
• Maintain internal controls in line with global policies to safeguard financial results integrity.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements.

Standard Costing:

• Develop accurate cost estimates for conversion costs including depreciation, labor, repairs and maintenance and site overheads.

• Responsible for creating and maintaining standard cost BOM’s and Routings to ensure accurate country transfer prices.

• Conduct product cost variance analysis in collaboration with SC Shared services comparing actual to standard, investigating and explaining variances, working with operational teams to address cost discrepancies.

Audit and Compliance:

• Coordinate and oversee internal and external audits for the Suffolk legal entity.
• Ensure compliance with statutory regulations and accounting standards.

Stakeholder Management and key interfaces

• Reports to Head of Supply Chain Finance
• Partners local Site Leadership /Supply Chain Organization
• Global Supply Chain Shared services
• Local and N.A. Category Finance Teams

Skills and experience:

• 5+ years work experience of which 2/3 years in SC or factory finance roles
• Experience with SAP strongly preferred
• Worked in FMCG, Multi-national companies
• Professional finance qualification desired (CIMA, ACA, CA or equivalent)
• Experience in financial and supply chain processes, specifically manufacturing is essential.
• Driving performance, risk management, decision making, critical thinking and collaboration.
• Highly adaptable, self-managed and proactive
• Being able to challenge your colleagues and other stakeholders.
• Being able to work and deal with deadlines, while maintaining a healthy work-life balance
• Excellent communication skills (in English)

A Great Place to Grow 

Here at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we grow a world of wellbeing to generate value for all. 

• Grow your LEADERSHIP – Thought leader or people leader, we want to help you to truly realise your potential. With a strong internal nurturing network and a focus on your development, you can grow your leadership with us. When you grow, the world around you will grow.
• Grow your VALUE - To foster your learning, we offer big, fulfilling roles within an empowering and entrepreneurial climate. You will have the space to take ownership and to make your mark – and you will be rewarded for the value that you create.
• Grow your IMPACT – We are unique in our industry - from our tea estates to our factories, labs and offices, we innovate sustainably and drive value for all. We grow a world of wellbeing, from seed to sip. You can truly leave your mark on our company and on the planet -through the meaningful work that you do. 

Benefits & Perks 

• Comprehensive insurance plans - health, dental + disability and life Insurance
• 401(k) with 5% company matching + an extra 4% after your first year
• Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Accounts
• Generous time off including paid vacation, company holidays, and floating holidays
• Parental Leave - Primary & Secondary
• Learning and development reimbursement

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is an organization committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. We are interested in every individual bringing their whole self to work and this includes you! Therefore if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.