Cost Accounting Manager

Accounting ManagerPosition OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Accounting Manager to lead cost and financial accounting activities for a manufacturing-oriented organization. This role is responsible for overseeing month-end close, financial reporting, cost accounting, inventory valuation, and business partnering with operations and finance to drive accurate financial results, continuous improvement, and cost reduction. The Accounting Manager will manage a small team, maintain SOX controls, support audits, and implement and optimize ERP and reporting systems to provide timely, decisionready information.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and execute monthend close activities, ensuring timely and accurate financial statements and variance explanations.Own balance sheet reconciliations, intercompany accounting, and review of key control accounts.Manage all aspects of cost accounting: standard costing, activitybased costing (ABC), product/job/process costing, and cost allocation methodologies.Oversee inventory valuation (FIFO/LIFO/Weighted Average), WIP accounting, and overhead allocation processes.Perform variance analysis (materials, labor, overhead) and partner with operations to identify drivers and corrective actions.Develop and maintain cost models, KPIs, and management reports to support pricing, profitability analysis, and strategic decisions.Prepare and present financial analysis, forecasts, and budgets; support month, quarter, and yearend forecasts and planning cycles.Maintain and improve internal controls and SOX compliance; coordinate and support external and internal audits.Lead ERP and reporting system initiatives (Oracle EBS, NetSuite, SAP FI/CO), and work with IT to implement enhancements and integrations with MRP/manufacturing systems.Automate reporting and analysis using Advanced Excel, Excel VBA, Power BI, Tableau, SQL, Hyperion/Essbase where appropriate.Drive cost reduction and continuous improvement projects across manufacturing and supply chain functions.Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff; establish clear objectives, review performance, and provide training and guidance.QualificationsBachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or CMA preferred.7+ years of progressive accounting experience with significant exposure to cost accounting in a manufacturing environment.Strong working knowledge of GAAP and IFRS and practical application to financial reporting.Demonstrated experience with standard costing, activitybased costing (ABC), product/job/process costing, and cost allocation.Proven experience with inventory valuation methods (FIFO/LIFO/Weighted Average), WIP accounting, and overhead allocation.Proficiency with ERP systems such as Oracle EBS, NetSuite, and/or SAP FI/CO; experience integrating with MRP/manufacturing systems.Advanced Excel skills (including Excel VBA), and experience with reporting/analysis tools such as Power BI, Tableau, SQL, and Hyperion/Essbase.Strong understanding of SOX/internal controls and experience supporting external and internal audits.Proven leadership skills, effective communication, and the ability to influence cross functional teams to drive results and continuous improvement.