Plant Controller - Greenfield Manufacturing Plant Opportunity in Harper Woods, Michigan

Robert Half is proud to partner with a dynamic, growing manufacturing organization launching a greenfield plant in Harper Woods, Michigan. We are seeking an exceptional Plant Controller to build the finance function from the ground up. This high-visibility leadership role offers direct exposure to senior executives and the Plant Manager, with significant time on the plant floor driving operational excellence. Leverage cutting-edge technology, modern ERP systems, and data analytics to develop best-in-class financial controls, reporting, and KPI dashboards. If you thrive in fast-paced, startup-like environments within manufacturing, this is your chance to shape the future of a new facility.

About the Role

As Plant Controller, you will be the financial cornerstone of this greenfield manufacturing plant, partnering closely with operations leaders to ensure fiscal discipline and strategic decision-making. This isn't just accounting—it's about translating plant floor activities into actionable financial insights. From budgeting and forecasting to inventory management and continuous improvement initiatives, you'll implement robust processes supported by advanced tools. Minimal travel is required, allowing you to focus on plant success. Join Robert Half's network of top finance talent and advance your career in a role with tremendous growth potential.

Key Responsibilities

Your impact will be immediate and far-reaching:

• Oversee all plant financial operations, including reporting, internal controls, and accountability for P&L results.
• Lead the annual budgeting process, monthly forecasting, and detailed variance analysis covering labor, materials, overhead, and productivity metrics.
• Develop and deliver daily, weekly, and monthly financial reports, along with interactive KPI dashboards for leadership review.
• Manage month-end close processes, inventory accounting, cycle counts, physical inventories, and perpetual inventory systems.
• Conduct financial impact analyses for engineering changes, capital expenditures, and key operational projects.
• Collaborate with operations, supply chain, engineering, and materials teams to drive Kaizen, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Optimize A/P, A/R, payroll, and purchasing workflows to scale efficiently as the plant grows.
• Build, coach, and lead a high-performing plant accounting and finance team in a collaborative culture.
• Adapt to the dynamic needs of a startup plant environment, contributing to strategic initiatives as required.

Required Qualifications

To succeed, bring:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master's or MBA preferred).
• CPA, CMA, or equivalent certification.
• 7+ years of manufacturing finance experience, including 3+ years in plant controllership or cost accounting.
• Proven track record in greenfield plant startups or rapid-growth manufacturing settings.
• Deep expertise in GAAP, standard costing, inventory valuation, and manufacturing financial metrics.
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Infor) and BI tools for dashboarding.
• Strong analytical skills for variance analysis and financial modeling.
• Leadership experience managing finance teams and influencing cross-functional partners.
• Hands-on knowledge of lean principles, Six Sigma, or Kaizen.
• Exceptional communication skills for presenting to executives and plant leadership.

Harper Woods, MI, offers an ideal location near Detroit's automotive hub, with easy access to major highways and a thriving manufacturing ecosystem.

Why Join Us?

This role at our client's greenfield plant promises unparalleled professional growth. Enjoy a competitive salary starting at $120,000+, comprehensive benefits including 401(k) match, health coverage, bonuses, and PTO. Gain exposure to executive leadership, modern tech stacks, and a collaborative team driving innovation. Robert Half provides confidential placement support—contact Jeff Sokolowski at (248)365-6131 or apply now. Shape the finance future of a cutting-edge manufacturing operation. (748 words)