Cost Analyst

Job Description

The role is responsible for analyzing and monitoring financial data related to food production, inventory, and operational expenses to ensure cost efficiency and profitability. It includes conducting variance analysis, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and providing actionable insights. The Cost Analyst also supports decision-making by preparing accurate recipe and menu costs, trend analyses, and reports to align operations with financial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily cost and manufacturing data analysis across EKFC business units, working with Production, Commercial, and Supply Chain teams to improve efficiency.
• Develop and monitor cost standards, track wastage, and analyze major cost drivers to identify trends for stakeholders.
• Support the Costing Manager with variance and trend analysis, highlighting issues and opportunities to maximize revenue and profit.
• Collect and evaluate historical data to provide assumptions, estimates, and recommendations to support business decisions.
• Maintain and update the costing database in the ERP system and oversee ERP cost setup according to company policies.
• Analyze changes in product/menu design, raw materials, or production methods to determine impact on costs.
• Conduct cost benchmarking to inform decisions on insourcing or outsourcing products for profitability.
• Set up, monitor, and reconcile landed cost calculations for food and packaging imports to ensure proper cost allocation.
• Collaborate with the Costing Manager to design costing methodology, cost standards, and KPI reporting.
• Perform ad hoc tasks as required.

Skill & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Commerce, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in finance, preferably in production or manufacturing accounting, including at least 2 years in a similar role.
• Experience in analytical tasks and preparing financial reports.
• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with other MS Office applications.
• Experienced with JDE ERP or similar ERP systems.
• Experience in process improvement initiatives.
• Background in the food production industry is preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.