Factory Finance Controller

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.

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.

• 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 optimise performance.
• Responsible for accurate forecasting to assist in decision‑making and resource allocation.
• Contribute to site‑masterplans and decision‑making on innovations, restructures or network business cases through deep understanding of site impacts and financials.

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

• 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.

• Develop accurate cost estimates for conversion costs including depreciation, labour, 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.

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

• 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

• 5+…