Cost Accountant

Introduction

An established and fast-paced manufacturing business specialising in bespoke interior and kitchen production is looking to appoint a detail-driven Cost Accountant to join their finance team.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on production environment and enjoys working closely with operations to drive cost efficiency, improve processes, and support strategic decision-making.

Role Overview

You will play a critical role in managing and analysing manufacturing costs across the business. From product costing and inventory valuation to variance analysis and reporting, your insights will directly influence pricing strategies, operational improvements, and overall profitability.

Duties & Responsibilities

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Costing & Profitability

• Develop and maintain accurate product costing models
• Analyse cost structures including materials, labour, and overheads
• Support pricing decisions through detailed margin and profitability analysis
• Continuously review and adjust costing as input costs fluctuate

Operational Cost Control

• Track and monitor production costs and raw material usage
• Identify and investigate cost variances and inefficiencies
• Partner with production teams to implement cost-saving initiatives

Inventory & Stock Management

• Ensure accurate stock valuation and cost allocation
• Monitor inventory levels and flag slow-moving or obsolete items
• Reconcile stock movements across systems and departments
• Participate in stock counts and reporting

Reporting & Insights

• Compile regular cost and production reports
• Provide insights into cost drivers and production performance
• Support management with actionable recommendations for cost reduction

Financial & Strategic Support

• Assist with budgeting and forecasting for manufacturing operations
• Contribute to monthly management accounts relating to production
• Support audit processes, particularly around inventory and costing

Systems & Process Improvement

• Enhance costing methodologies and reporting tools
• Support integration between operational and financial systems
• Strengthen internal controls and cost management processes

Desired Experience & Qualification

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications

• Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Management Accounting
• CIMA (in progress or completed) highly advantageous
• SAIPA / SAICA articles beneficial

Experience

• 3–5 years’ experience in a cost accounting role
• Exposure to a manufacturing or production environment is essential
• Strong understanding of:
  • Bill of Materials (BOM) costing
  • Inventory accounting
  • Standard costing and variance analysis
• Industry experience in cabinetry, furniture, or construction manufacturing will be an advantage.

Key Skills

• Strong analytical and financial modelling ability
• Advanced Excel skills
• Experience working with ERP or accounting systems
• High attention to detail and accuracy

Package & Remuneration

What’s on Offer

• Exposure to a dynamic manufacturing and production environment
• Opportunity to work closely with both finance and operations teams
• Career growth within a specialised and evolving industry
• Potential performance-based incentives and benefits

Work Environment

This role offers a mix of office-based and on-site factory involvement, requiring regular interaction with production, procurement, and warehouse teams.