Cost Accountant

Job Summary

The Cost Accountant is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and controlling costs across the retail business to ensure accurate financial reporting and improved profitability. The role supports inventory valuation, cost analysis, budgeting, and margin optimization while ensuring compliance with accounting standards and company policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain accurate product costing and inventory valuation.
• Monitor the cost of goods sold (COGS) and analyze variances against budgets and forecasts.
• Conduct inventory cost analysis and support periodic stock counts and reconciliations.
• Analyze product profitability, gross margins, and pricing to support commercial decisions.
• Prepare monthly cost reports and management dashboards.
• Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control initiatives.
• Ensure accurate recording of inventory transactions in the ERP system.
• Work closely with Finance, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Retail Operations to improve cost efficiency.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend process improvements.
• Support internal and external audits by providing cost-related documentation and analysis.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and internal financial controls.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in cost accounting, preferably within the retail or FMCG sector.
• Strong understanding of inventory accounting, product costing, and financial reporting.
• Experience using ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of IFRS and cost accounting principles is preferred.
• Professional certification (CMA, CPA, or equivalent) is an advantage.