Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. 

What We Offer

Salary:

$180,500.00 - $248,500.00

Location:

Santa Clara,CA

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more. 

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits. 

Position Overview

The Director of Finance for Central Product Groups is a strategic finance leader responsible for partnering with engineering, product development in central product groups across SPG. This role drives financial planning, portfolio management, and operational excellence for core engineering, IMS, AIx, Process Chemistry & DAE groups in addition to supporting several common SPG initiatives including Productivity. The Director will lead a team supporting scenario modeling, investment analysis, and business case development for high-impact programs, new product platforms, and ad hoc programs.

Key Responsibilities

Business Partnering & Influence

• Serve as the primary finance partner to business leaders (Core Engineering, IMS, AiX, DAE, Process Chemistry), supporting strategic decisions and resource allocation for multi-BU programs and central initiatives.
• Collaborate with BU CFOs, product managers, and technical leads to align financial objectives with business priorities and drive value creation across SPG.
• Lead cross-functional teams to develop business cases for new investments, and productivity initiatives, ensuring robust scenario modeling and risk assessment.

Financial Planning, Analysis & Modeling

• Own the financial planning cycle for relevant BUs, including annual operating plans, long-range strategic plans, and quarterly forecasts.
• Develop and maintain advanced financial models to support scenario planning, portfolio optimization, and investment prioritization for central projects.
• Drive cost efficiency and value capture through rigorous KPI management, spend analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of finance professionals fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
• Champion professional development, breadth rotations, and career growth opportunities within the finance organization.
• Build strong relationships with technical and operational leaders

Dealing with Ambiguity & Change

• Navigate complex, ambiguous business environments, proactively identifying risks and opportunities.
• Lead transformation initiatives, including process standardization, digital finance projects, and ERP integrations impacting central groups.
• Support regional finance alignment and communications, ensuring transparency and effective allocation methodologies for cross-BU and central spend.

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with corporate finance policies, SOX controls, and internal audit requirements for central product groups.

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or related field; MBA or relevant advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive finance experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role supporting engineering, product development, or infrastructure in a global technology/manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience as a finance business partner for technical and operational teams, with a track record of influencing senior leaders and driving business outcomes.
• Advanced financial modeling and analytical skills; expertise in sce