Finance Manager / Commercial Manager / Head of Finance
Location: Rochford, Essex - Office based role so must be within commuting distance.
Job Purpose
The Cost Analyst is responsible for analysing, monitoring, and reporting on organisational costs to support financial efficiency and profitability. The role involves identifying cost‑saving opportunities, preparing financial models, supporting budgeting processes, and providing data‑driven insights to aid operational and strategic decision‑making.
Key Responsibilities
* Analyse operational, production, procurement, and project costs.
* Prepare regular cost reports, variance analyses, and financial summaries.
* Monitor actual expenditure against budgets and forecasts.
* Identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for cost reduction.
* Develop and maintain cost models for products, services, or projects.
Budgeting & Forecasting
* Support annual budgeting and periodic forecasting exercises.
* Work with department managers to review spending plans.
* Assist in preparing financial projections and scenario analyses.
* Track key cost drivers and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
Commercial & Operational Support
* Evaluate supplier pricing and procurement costs.
* Support tendering, pricing, and contract reviews.
* Conduct profitability and margin analysis.
* Provide financial insight for operational improvement initiatives.
Data Management Systems
* Maintain accurate financial and operational datasets.
* Use ERP/accounting systems and spreadsheets to produce analyses.
* Develop dashboards and reporting tools where applicable.
* Ensure data integrity and consistency across reporting processes.
Compliance & Controls
* Ensure compliance with company financial policies and procedures.
* Assist with audits and financial reviews.
* Support implementation of internal controls related to cost management.
* Strong numerical and analytical skills.
* Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
* Ability to interpret complex financial data.
* Excellent attention to detail.
* Strong communication and presentation skills.
* Commercial awareness and business acumen.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
* Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Sage, Dynamics).
* Knowledge of Power BI or other reporting tools.
* Understanding of cost accounting principles.
* Experience in manufacturing, construction, logistics, or service industries.
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or related field.
* 2+ years' experience in cost analysis, finance analysis, or management accounting.
* Part-qualified or qualified professional certification (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, or equivalent).
* Experience in budgeting and forecasting environments.
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