Senior Operations Controller (Ref: 195451)

My client are a leading provider of high-quality pet food solutions, committed to supporting pet owners and businesses across Europe. They pride ourselves on delivering nutritious, safe, and innovative products for pets of all types, while maintaining the highest standards of sustainability and ethical sourcing. Their team-driven culture values collaboration, expertise, and a passion for pets, making us a trusted partner in the pet food industry.

The Senior Operations Controller is responsible for planning, organising, and directing operational controlling processes and management reporting for the production units in Benelux, as well as supply chain activities including inventory, transport, and warehousing. This role ensures accurate consolidated reporting across all operations and supports the financial management of production and operational activities.

Operational and Financial Controlling

• Oversee production and operations controlling processes.

• Prepare and analyse production cost reports and factory scorecards.

• Monitor CAPEX spending and support budgeting for production costs.

• Assist in forecasting and budgeting for production costs, OWC, rebates, and logistics.

• Control and report on transport and warehousing costs.

• Manage and monitor inventory levels and performance.

• Support reporting on FTE, shrinkage/scrap, utilities, and maintenance metrics.

• Assist in updating and implementing fixed and variable cost allocation guidelines.

• Ensure compliance with plant performance reporting standards and methodology.

• Support the development and implementation of business development projects, identifying opportunities for increased profitability through investment, cost savings, acquisitions, or diversification.

• Develop roadmaps and proposals for mid- and long-term cost savings.

• Conduct post-project evaluations for major CAPEX projects.

• Collaborate closely with the Business Controlling Director, COO of PPF Europe, Plant Controllers, and Plant Managers.

• Contribute to key finance and operations projects.

• Ensure accurate, timely reporting and control of operational areas.

Education & Qualifications

• University degree or equivalent higher professional education.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in finance or administrative management.

• Extensive experience in the consumer goods sector.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and database management.

• Proven ability to create business tools and financial models.

• Ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Knowledge of leading best practices in operations and financial management.

• Excellent communication skills in English (written and verbal).

• Proactive in identifying areas of opportunity.

Personal Qualities

• Independent, responsible, and reliable.

• Strong team player with excellent communication skills.

• Energetic, creative, and down-to-earth.

• Willing and able to travel as required.

• Competitive salary and benefits package (details to be provided by employer).

• Opportunity to work across multiple operations sites in Benelux and Europe.

• Exposure to strategic business projects and development initiatives.

• Frequent travel across Europe for meetings with administrative managers, budget reviews, and project updates.