At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial performance and drive operational efficiency in a dynamic bakery environment.
- Company: Join a leading global bakery group with a passion for excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Be a hands-on finance leader and make a real impact on business success.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in finance or operations.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Have an appetite for more? Join a leading global bakery group powered by ambitious people that are truly passionate about delivering the best in everything they do. With business in mind and people at heart we always work together to influence our road ahead. We want you to be part of our growth journey and of a great, global family.
Reporting to: Head of Controlling
The Opportunity
We’re looking for an ambitious Operations Controller to play a pivotal role at the heart of our manufacturing operation. This isn’t a passive reporting role—you’ll be a hands-on finance leader, partnering directly with the Site General Manager and cross-functional teams to drive performance, challenge thinking, and turn data into action. You’ll combine deep analytical capability with the ability to build trusted stakeholder relationships, acting as a true co-pilot to the business.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Own the Numbers – and the Story Behind Them
- Lead the end-to-end standard costing and budgeting cycle, bringing clarity to material movements and performance trends.
- Deliver robust variance analysis, identifying root causes and translating insight into tangible corrective actions.
- Take ownership of month-end reporting and performance commentary, ensuring accuracy and commercial relevance.
- Build and enhance Excel models and BI tools to improve visibility on cost, waste and operational efficiency.
- Be a True Business Partner
- Act as a trusted advisor to operations, supporting delivery of site performance targets.
- Work cross-functionally with commercial, NPD and operations teams, connecting financial insight to business decisions.
- Bridge the gap between finance and the wider business—ensuring financial data is understood, challenged and acted upon.
- Influence stakeholders at all levels, balancing challenge with collaboration.
- Drive Continuous Improvement
- Champion a proactive, insight-led approach to performance.
- Identify opportunities to improve processes, reporting and decision-making.
- Support strategic and ad-hoc projects that enhance operational efficiency and profitability.
Operations Controller - Finance Business Partner in Bedford employer: Lantmännen Unibake
Join a dynamic global bakery group in Bedford, where your role as an Operations Controller will not only challenge you but also empower you to make a significant impact on our manufacturing operations. We foster a collaborative work culture that values innovation and continuous improvement, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team environment. With a focus on both business success and employee well-being, we are committed to nurturing talent and driving performance together as one global family.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Controller - Finance Business Partner in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to finance and operations. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your analytical skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for continuous improvement! Be ready to discuss how you've identified opportunities for process enhancements in past roles. This will resonate well with employers looking for proactive candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our global family.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Controller - Finance Business Partner in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your passion for finance and operations aligns with our mission to deliver the best in everything we do.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience that matches the job description. We’re looking for someone who can own the numbers and tell the story behind them, so showcase your analytical skills and business partnering experience!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your achievements and skills are easy to spot. Use bullet points if it helps to break down your experience!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our global family.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lantmännen Unibake
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Operations Controller, you'll need to own the numbers. Brush up on your financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive performance in previous roles. Prepare examples of variance analysis and budgeting cycles you've led.
✨Build Relationships
This role is all about being a true business partner. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build trusted relationships with stakeholders. Have stories ready that showcase your collaboration with cross-functional teams and how you’ve influenced decisions.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
You’ll need deep analytical capability, so be prepared to discuss specific tools and models you've used, especially in Excel and BI. Bring examples of how your insights have led to tangible improvements in operational efficiency or cost management.
✨Embrace Continuous Improvement
The company values a proactive approach to performance. Think of instances where you've identified opportunities for process improvement or driven strategic projects. Be ready to share how your initiatives have positively impacted profitability and efficiency.
