Cost Controller

Overview of the role

The Cost Controller is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and reporting costs associated with capital projects and external services. This role ensures accurate tracking of expenditures, adherence to budgets, and optimization of financial performance. Working closely with project managers, procurement teams, and finance, the Cost Controller promotes cost transparency and supports informed business decisions.

Key Accountabilities

• Develop and maintain cost control systems, procedures, and standards for capital projects and external services.
• Monitor actual project expenditures against approved budgets and forecasts.
• Prepare regular cost reports, variance analyses, and financial dashboards for stakeholders.
• Collaborate with project managers to review and validate cost estimates, change orders, and contractor invoices.
• Track commitments, accruals, and payments to ensure accuracy in financial records.
• Identify potential cost overruns and recommend corrective actions.
• Support procurement and contract management processes by providing cost-related insights.
• Assist in preparing forecasts, cash flow projections, and budget revisions.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, financial guidelines, and contractual terms.
• Contribute cost-related input for project close-out activities and lessons learned documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in cost control, preferably in capital projects or manufacturing sectors.
• Strong knowledge of cost control principles, methodologies, and best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with project management software (e.g., SAP, Power BI).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in SAP.
• Advanced skills in Power BI or other data visualization tools.
• Experience in capital projects within the manufacturing sector.
• Proven expertise in vendor/contractor cost tracking and analysis.
• Professional certification such as CMA (Certified Management Accountant) or CPA (Certified Public Accountant).