Cost Accounting Manager

What to Expect The Cost Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing all cost accounting activities within a global motorcycling manufacturing and distribution environment. This role ensures accurate product costing, inventory valuation, and financial reporting, while driving cost control initiatives and supporting operational efficiency. The ideal candidate has deep experience in preferably, automotive or related manufacturing and strong expertise in SAP, preferably SAP S/4Hana.

Key Responsibilities Cost Accounting & Reporting

Manage and oversee all cost accounting functions, of which parts are outsourced to a shared service center, including standard costing, variance analysis, and inventory valuation

Maintain and update standard costs for finished goods, parts and overhead allocations, within SAP

Calculate and account for obsolescence and warranty reserves

Analyze and report production variances (material, labor, overhead) and provide actionable insights

Ensure accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes related to inventory and cost of goods sold

SAP System Management

Act as key user for SAP inventory accounting

Maintain cost centers, profit centers, internal orders, and product costing structures in SAP

Drive continuous improvements in SAP reporting, costing accuracy, and process efficiency

Support SAP enhancements, upgrades, and implementation projects

Business Partnering

Partner with Operations, Logistics and Engineering teams to understand cost drivers and support decision-making

Provide financial support for new product launches, engineering changes, and other initiatives

Develop and monitor KPIs related to manufacturing efficiency, scrap, and productivity

Budgeting & Forecasting

Lead COGS-related budgeting and forecasting processes

Monitor actual performance against budgets and forecast deviations

Support long-term cost planning and strategic initiatives

Compliance & Controls

Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting standards, and company policies

Support audits related to inventory and cost accounting

Maintain accurate documentation and audit trails within SAP

Continuous Improvement

Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead cost reduction initiatives

Optimize costing processes and reporting tools

Drive best practices in cost transparency and operational finance