Business Controller for Operations & Group

About the job and your team

Hydro Building Systems (HBS) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Business Controller to support both its Operations and Group Finance functions. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Finance, this role is instrumental in shaping financial strategy, enhancing performance management, and supporting key decision-making processes across the organization.

The successful candidate will divide the responsibilities equally between operational finance and group-level business controlling. This dual focus offers a unique opportunity to influence both day-to-day operational efficiency and long-term strategic direction.

You will work on

As Operations Business Controller, you will serve as a core member of the finance leadership team within the operations division, with 12 sites across Europe. These sites encompass a range of activities including remelting, extrusion, painting, thermal break assembly, and warehousing. The role involves developing and refining performance management frameworks, maintaining and evolving the operational scorecard, and ensuring that key performance indicators are effectively monitored and acted upon. You will also play a central role in capital expenditure planning and oversight, particularly in relation to large-scale investments, and will be responsible for conducting quarterly benchmarking exercises to drive continuous improvement.

As Group Business Controller, you will contribute to the broader financial governance of the business. This includes participating in cross-functional projects, supporting senior management with in-depth financial analysis, and enhancing the quality and efficiency of financial reporting and business planning processes. The role also entails ownership of specific aspects of the monthly financial close, preparation of management reports and presentations, and active involvement in cash flow and net operating capital management, with a particular emphasis on inventory optimization. Flexibility and a collaborative spirit are essential, as the role may also involve supporting other finance-related tasks as needed.

In addition, you will be expected to contribute to market intelligence efforts by ensuring the effective use of analytical tools and providing insights into market share trends and competitive dynamics.

Your qualifications and skills

You will bring at least ten years of experience in business controlling, preferably within a multinational industrial or manufacturing environment. A strong background in production-related finance and familiarity with corporate head office reporting requirements are essential. With a Master’s degree in Finance or an equivalent professional qualification, you demonstrate a proven ability to lead change and drive performance improvements.

Fluency in English is required, along with excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. The role demands advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, and experience with financial systems such as HFM, SAP, and Power BI will be considered a significant advantage. Strong project management capabilities and the ability to meet tight deadlines are also critical.

You are characterized by integrity, a positive and proactive attitude, and a structured approach to work. You possess a natural curiosity and a desire for continuous learning and development, both for you and for those around you. The ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels—from senior management to shop floor personnel—is essential, as is the capacity to work independently while remaining an active and supportive member of the finance team.

What we offer you

This is a permanent contract offering a competitive compensation package. The salary will be aligned with the candidate’s experience and qualifications and will also consider the cost of living and market standards in the selected location (France, Italy, Spain, Germany or the UK).

Location

• Toulouse or Courmelles (France), Atessa or Aielli (Italy), Miranda (Spain), Tewkesbury (UK), Gerstungen or Bellenberg (Germany)
• The role will require travelling, on average once per month