How Finance Leaders in Manufacturing Are Turning Challenges into Strategic Advantage

Growth is a universal objective among business leaders, but how it’s defined and achieved varies greatly depending on the needs of each business. For some, growth requires subtle adjustments. For others, it demands a complete shift in processes and mindset. In every case, one theme remains consistent: data-driven insight is essential. In manufacturing, this is even more so the case.

Manufacturing CFOs increasingly recognise that the right data, at the right time, is what enables confident decisions. Yet, many are still navigating complexity with outdated tools and fragmented systems. Insights from over 280 senior finance leaders in manufacturing and distribution reveal the pressures they’re under and the opportunities ahead.

The Role of the Manufacturing CFO Is Evolving

Compared to their peers in other industries, manufacturing CFOs are less likely to be involved in operational decisions or strategic planning. This represents a missed opportunity, not just for the business, but for the CFOs themselves. A more integrated role enables finance leaders to influence innovation, drive growth, and improve job satisfaction.

Currently, just 24% of senior manufacturing finance professionals report satisfaction with their work-life balance. A rethink is overdue, and technology offers a way forward.

Bridging the Automation Gap

While manufacturing operations are often highly automated, finance departments frequently lag behind. Only 60% of manufacturing CFOs believe more than half of their finance processes can be automated, versus 74% in other sectors. Similarly, only half are actively adopting automation, machine learning, or AI.

The cost of inaction is growing. Without automation, teams are bogged down by manual tasks, limited visibility, and disconnected workflows. By automating core finance processes, organisations free up valuable time, reduce errors, and create a foundation for advanced insights and collaboration.

From Data to Decisions

Integrating operational and financial data delivers a single, real-time view of performance across the business. This visibility allows for faster, more confident decisions and aligns cross-functional teams. With the right tools, reporting becomes self-serve, dashboards become meaningful, and planning becomes proactive, not reactive.

Real-time scenario modelling empowers finance leaders to forecast cash flow, production capacity, and supply chain resilience, all from the same source of truth. In turn, this drives agility and positions CFOs as strategic partners.

Rebalancing Work and Wellbeing

Technology isn’t just a business enabler, it’s a people enabler. Cloud-native platforms support flexible and hybrid work, ensuring teams can stay connected and informed wherever they are. By reducing low-value admin and increasing transparency, finance leaders can focus on strategic initiatives that foster growth, innovation, and employee wellbeing.

The Path Forward

Modern ERP and finance solutions aren’t just about software – they’re about transformation. When implemented thoughtfully, they reduce disruption, support scalability, and align with long-term strategic goals. For manufacturing CFOs looking to expand their impact, streamline operations, and improve work-life balance, embracing this change is no longer optional – it’s a competitive imperative.