Cost Accounting Manager

Position Overview

Our client, an established manufacturing organization, is seeking an experienced Cost Accounting leader to oversee cost accounting and financial reporting activities supporting its manufacturing and operational functions.

This individual will play a key role in product costing, inventory valuation, manufacturing financial reporting, budgeting, and capacity planning. The position will also partner closely with senior leadership and operational teams to ensure cost information supports both financial reporting requirements and broader business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the organization’s cost accounting function, including oversight and development of the cost accounting team.
• Manage the development, implementation, and ongoing improvement of cost accounting processes, reporting, and internal controls.
• Oversee product standard costing, including the assumptions used for manufacturing capacity and production planning.
• Lead the financial components of the annual manufacturing budget process, partnering with operational leadership to establish standard costs across the product portfolio.
• Ensure accurate inventory costing and valuation, including monthly inventory reporting and assessment of required reserves as part of the month-end close.
• Maintain consistent and appropriate inventory valuation and costing methodologies across manufacturing operations.
• Provide financial reporting and analysis supporting manufacturing, quality, and other operational business areas.
• Partner with senior management to ensure cost accounting activities and reporting align with the organization’s broader strategic and financial objectives.
• Identify opportunities to enhance cost accounting processes, systems, and management reporting, and present recommended improvements to leadership.
• Serve as a key finance partner to manufacturing personnel, providing visibility into product costs, operational performance, and relevant financial drivers.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline required; an advanced degree in Accounting or Finance is preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience, ideally including financial analysis, accounting management, cost accounting, or a comparable role.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear financial reports and effectively communicate financial concepts to business stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial processes, and process development across multiple areas of an organization.
• Ability to interpret technical guidance and translate complex accounting or financial information into practical business insights.