Sr. Manager - Operations Analysis
Novi, MI, US, 48377
Dana is a global leader in the supply of highly engineered driveline, sealing, and thermal-management technologies that improve the efficiency and performance of vehicles with both conventional and alternative-energy powertrains. Serving three primary markets – passenger vehicle, commercial truck, and off-highway equipment – Dana provides the world's original-equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket with local product and service support through a network of nearly 100 engineering, manufacturing, and distribution facilities.
Job Purpose
Dana is seeking a highly analytical and forward-thinking Senior Manager - Operations Analysis to lead financial planning and performance analysis for manufacturing operations. This role will focus on uncovering the key drivers of manufacturing performance across plants and operations, supporting strategic business cases, and driving modernization of FP&A through automation, advanced analytics, and deep business driver analysis. The ideal candidate will be a strong business partner to operations leadership and a catalyst for data-driven decision-making.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
Manufacturing Performance Analysis
- Lead financial analysis of manufacturing operations across multiple plants and business units.
- Identify and evaluate key performance drivers, including throughput, labor efficiency, material usage, scrap, downtime, and overhead absorption.
- Partner with plant controllers and operations teams to assess cost structures and recommend improvements.
Business Case Development & Strategic Projects
- Develop and evaluate financial models for capital investments, footprint optimization, and operational initiatives.
- Support cross-functional teams with financial insights for special projects, including MFO (Manufacturing Footprint Optimization), restructuring, and strategic sourcing.
- Provide scenario analysis and ROI assessments to guide executive decision-making.
FP&A Modernization & Analytics
- Drive transformation of FP&A processes through automation, lean principles, and advanced analytics.
- Implement tools and methodologies to improve forecast accuracy, reporting speed, and insight generation.
- Leverage technologies such as Power BI, Python, R, and AI/ML platforms to enhance data visualization and predictive capabilities.
Planning & Forecasting
- Support the development of monthly forecasts, annual operating plans, and long-range strategic plans for manufacturing operations.
- Ensure alignment between plant-level forecasts and corporate financial targets.
- Deliver timely and accurate reporting with actionable insights for operations leadership.
- Support the monthly, quarterly, and annual consolidation and reporting as required.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in FP&A or manufacturing finance, with a strong understanding of plant operations and cost accounting.
- Experience supporting manufacturing leadership and driving operational performance through financial insights.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Power BI, SAP, Hyperion, and advanced Excel.
- Experience with Python, R, or other analytics tools preferred.
- Familiarity with automation, AI/ML, and digital finance transformation initiatives.
Soft Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills; able to influence across finance and operations.
- Self-starter with a continuous improvement mindset and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or related field required.
- MBA or advanced degree preferred.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Unsolicited Resumes from Third-Party Recruiters
Please note that as per Dana policy, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters unless such recruiters were engaged to provide candidates for a specified opening. Any employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume does so with the understanding that Dana will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person or entity.
Nearest Major Market: Detroit