• Own cost accounting, variance analysis, and inventory valuation in manufacturing
• Partner with production and supply chain to turn cost data into decisions
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and month-end reporting in a hands-on finance role

About the role

Reporting to the Financial Controller, you'll be responsible for maintaining standard cost models, performing cost roll-ups in the ERP system, and delivering detailed variance analysis across materials, labour, and overhead. Month-end you'll produce COGS analysis, gross margin reports, and plant-level profitability summaries — and you'll present your findings directly to operations and finance leadership.

Beyond the numbers, you'll be the go-to finance partner for plant managers and production supervisors, helping them understand costs and make better decisions. You'll also take a lead role in the annual budget process and maintain the rolling forecast for all manufacturing cost lines.

What you'll be doing

• Maintaining and reviewing standard cost models, including materials, labour, and overhead allocations
• Analysing manufacturing cost variances and delivering clear monthly commentary to operational and finance stakeholders
• Overseeing inventory accounting, fixed asset management, and ERP cost accounting modules
• Supporting the annual budget and monthly rolling forecast for all manufacturing cost centres
• Preparing balance sheet reconciliations, working papers for external audit, and management reporting packs
• Identifying process improvement opportunities and contributing to reporting tools and dashboards

What we're looking for

• CA or CPA qualification
• Strong understanding of standard costing, inventory valuation, and variance analysis
• Experience with ERP systems and cost accounting modules
• High proficiency in Excel, including financial modelling and data analysis
• Experience in mining, resources, chemicals, or heavy manufacturing is highly regarded, as is familiarity with bill of materials (BOM) structures and production routings