Cost Accountant

Gleeson Recruitment Ltd; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job description

Due to internal promotion, the opportunity has arisen for a skilled Cost Accountant to join a leading manufacturing business at a pivotal time in their growth. This successful Cost Accountant will play a critical part in ensuring the successful launch of new programmes, providing full financial oversight and cross-functional collaboration to support profitable growth and strong commercial outcomes. You will be based out of the Solihull site and this opportunity is paying up to £50,000.

This is a unique role where you'll have impact from day 1. There will be heaps of support from the senior team, and you'll be given the autonomy to manage projects independently.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Full responsibility for the income statement and balance sheet items related to new programme launches.
2. Ensure accurate accounting and tracking of capital and SUL (Start-Up & Launch) costs.
3. Monitor, report, and forecast plant launch costs monthly, including capital, cash, and income statement impacts.
4. Deliver detailed variance analysis comparing actuals vs. original business case (PAR).
5. Present financial updates to senior leadership and stakeholders, highlighting areas of concern or margin deterioration.
6. Validate and approve material prices and Purchase Orders in line with budget and GL coding.
7. Collaborate with manufacturing operations to capture and analyse production costs and variances.
8. Support the finance team during month-end close processes: journal entries, reconciliations, and variance analysis.
9. Ensure internal controls are maintained and support the annual financial audit process.
10. Provide cost accounting expertise to enhance operational efficiency and support cost improvement initiatives.
11. Analyse labour and overhead allocation for appropriate burden rates.

About You:

1. A recognised accountancy qualification (ACCA/CIMA) is desirable.
2. Strong commercial acumen and ability to influence across departments.
3. Excellent analytical and presentation skills.
4. Experience in manufacturing finance would be beneficial.

At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.