Management Accountant jobs in South Africa

Cost Accountant (Food Manufacturing / FMCG or Pharmaceutical)

POSITION TITLE: Cost Accountant

OPERATING DIVISION: Finance

EMPLOYEE GROUP: Permanent

REPORTING TO: Finance Manager

DOTTED LINE REPORTING: General Manager

LOCATION: Centurion

MAIN PURPOSE: This position plays a crucial role in the financial management of the organisation by analysing and reporting on various aspects of production costs.

This position involves monitoring, recording, and analyzing all costs associated with the manufacturing process to ensure accurate financial reporting and informed decision-making.

1. Cost Analysis: Conduct detailed analysis of manufacturing costs, including direct labor, direct materials, and overhead expenses. Regularly review and update cost estimates for new and existing products versus expectations. Analyse variances between actual and standard costs, identifying and investigating discrepancies. Review the BOM to ensure accuracy with production activities.
2. Inventory Management: Oversee inventory valuation and ensure accurate recording in financial statements. Collaborate with production to reconcile physical inventory with accounting records. Regularly review inventory processing procedures, including receiving, inter-warehouse transfers, daily production reconciliation, and issues to production. Implement and maintain effective inventory control measures. Prepare and present financial reports related to manufacturing costs, providing insights and recommendations to support strategic decisions. Assist in budget and forecast preparation related to manufacturing activities.
3. Month-end Close: Play a key role in month-end closing, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting. Reconcile general ledger accounts related to manufacturing costs.
4. Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements and cost-saving initiatives.
5. Compliance: Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulations. Assist in internal and external audits related to manufacturing costs.
6. Communication and Collaboration: Work with departments including production, procurement, and finance to gather relevant cost information. Communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders, providing insights and answering inquiries related to manufacturing costs.

• Qualifications & Experience: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or relevant field. Professional certificates such as CIMA or SAICA are advantageous.
• Experience: Proven experience in Cost Accounting, preferably in manufacturing. Knowledge of accounting software and ERP systems (e.g., Sage Evolution v9). Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, attention to detail, and organizational skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work under pressure, adapt to changing priorities, and maintain confidentiality. Leadership and interpersonal skills, with a customer service orientation and ability to collaborate effectively.