Cost Accoutnant | Manufacturing / FMCG (Food)

Cost Accoutnant | Manufacturing / FMCG (Food)

Recruiter

Network Recruitment

Job Ref

NFR009599/MoD

Date posted

Thursday, May 7, 2026

Location

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Salary

550000 Annually

SUMMARY

We are looking for a hands-on and driven Cost Accountant to join a dynamic manufacturing environment within the FMCG (food) sector. Reporting to the Financial Manager, this role plays a critical part in improving profitability through effective cost control, stock accuracy, and operational insight.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys being close to operations — not just behind a desk — with regular exposure to the factory floor and cross-functional teams.

POSITION INFO

Key Responsibilities

Costing & Profitability

• Analyse and report on key cost drivers, including materials, labour, overheads, and margins
• Monitor production yields, waste, and material usage against standards
• Maintain and improve BOMs and standard costing accuracy
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and efficiency improvements
• Partner with production, warehouse, and commercial teams to optimise margins

Inventory & Stock Control

• Lead stock control processes, including cycle counts and stock takes
• Investigate and resolve stock variances and root causes
• Monitor slow-moving, obsolete, and at-risk inventory
• Ensure accuracy of all stock transactions (GRNs, production, dispatch)
• Drive adherence to stock control procedures and process discipline

Financial Reporting & Processing

• Process financial transactions up to trial balance level
• Assist with month-end reporting, management accounts, and budgeting
• Prepare journals, reconciliations, and supporting schedules
• Support VAT submissions and fixed asset management
• Review daily sales and GRN reporting

Controls & Compliance

• Maintain strong financial controls and SOP compliance
• Support internal and external audits
• Review payment batches and assist with banking controls (local & international)
• Assist with wage payment controls and submissions

Data & Systems

• Track and report on key KPIs, risks, and variances
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy across costing and operations
• Identify opportunities to improve reporting, systems, and automation

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance / Accounting
• CIMA (completed or in progress – Strategic level or higher)
• 2–5 years’ experience in a similar role (manufacturing / FMCG preferred)

Advantageous

• CIMA articles
• Strong Excel skills (SQL beneficial)
• ERP system experience (Syspro highly advantageous)

What We’re Looking For

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• High attention to detail and process-driven mindset
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-driven
• Strong communicator with the ability to engage across teams
• A curious mindset with a focus on continuous improvement

What Success Looks Like

• Accurate and reliable costing and stock reporting
• Reduced stock variances and improved control
• Strong adherence to processes, controls, and deadlines
• Measurable contributions to cost savings and operational efficiencies

Additional Information

• This is a fully on-site role based in Strand
• Package includes Provident Fund (included in total cost to company)