Cost Analyst

Abantu Staffing Solutions; East London; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing solutions firm in South Africa is on the lookout for a proficient Cost Analyst to manage food cost processes across their restaurant network. The successful candidate will analyze daily variances, perform monthly food cost calculations, and collaborate cross-functionally with various teams to enhance operational efficiency. A minimum of 2 years in a finance or cost analysis role is required, along with advanced Excel skills and a valid driver’s licence. Experience in the Quick Service Restaurant industry is advantageous.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in a business finance or cost analysis role.
• Must have a valid driver’s licence.
• Experience in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) or hospitality industry is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Monitor daily variances and liaise with stores to resolve issues.
• Identify root causes of cost variances and recommend corrective actions.
• Calculate actual and theoretical food costs for each restaurant.
• Maintain and update Bill of Materials with ingredient costs.
• Recommend enhancements to reporting templates for efficiency.
• Collaborate across Finance, Supply Chain, Operations, and Marketing.

Skills

Advanced numerical and analytical ability

Strong proficiency in Excel

Knowledge of cost control and budgeting

Ability to maintain accurate Bill of Materials

Planning and organisational skills

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Com or equivalent qualification (advantageous)

Tools

Excel

ERP/BI tools

Job description

Overview

The Cost Analyst is responsible for analysing and managing food cost processes across the company’s restaurant network. This includes maintaining the Bill of Materials (BOM), performing monthly food cost calculations, investigating variances, and providing actionable insights to improve operational efficiency. The role works closely with Finance, Operations, Supply Chain, and Marketing to ensure accurate financial reporting and support business decision-making.

Minimum Requirements

• Matric / Grade 12
• Com or equivalent qualification (advantageous)
• 2+ years in a business finance or cost analysis role
• Must have a valid driver’s licence
• Experience in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) or hospitality industry (advantageous)

Responsibilities

• Daily Food Cost Analysis: Monitor daily variances, missing stock, and damages; liaise with stores, Area Coaches, and Operations Manager to resolve issues.
• Variance Investigation: Identify root causes of cost variances and recommend corrective actions.
• Cost Calculations: Calculate actual and theoretical food costs for each restaurant and analyse stock transfers.
• Bill of Materials Management: Maintain and update BOM with ingredient costs, new products, and accurate selling prices.
• Reporting & Process Improvement: Recommend enhancements to reporting templates and routine analyses to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with Finance, Supply Chain, Operations, and Marketing teams to align data and resolve queries.

Competencies

Technical / Functional Skills

• Advanced numerical and analytical ability.
• Strong proficiency in Excel and familiarity with ERP/BI tools.
• Knowledge of cost control, budgeting, and supply chain fundamentals.
• Ability to maintain accurate Bill of Materials and generate variance reports.
• Planning and organisational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Accountability and dependability.
• Time management and ability to prioritise.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving mindset.
• Integrity and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.