What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Cost Analyst position at Cook Group?
Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Cost Analyst to join our Global Operations Finance team. In this role, you will provide critical financial insight and support to manufacturing operations to help drive performance, optimize inventory, reduce waste, and improve cash flow. You will partner closely with operations, procurement, and leadership to deliver actionable analysis, enhance financial literacy across the organization, and support strategic decision-making. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive, detail-oriented finance professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about continuous improvement.
Responsibilities
- Conduct detailed analysis of material variances, labor variances, and operating expenses; identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.
- Develop proactive financial models with multiple assumptions to assess risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
- Collaborate with operations and procurement to ensure accurate and efficient inventory management, including periodic counts and variance reconciliation.
- Support monthly financial close, forecasts, and preparation of key corporate metrics and reports.
- Establish and monitor cost standards for material, labor, and overhead; prepare cost and margin reporting.
- Provide financial leadership by interpreting results, explaining key variances, and making recommendations based on business drivers.
- Spread financial literacy across functions by effectively communicating financial implications of projects and initiatives.
- Contribute to strategic projects, process improvements, and cross-functional initiatives to enhance efficiency and financial performance.
- Prepare financial data and analysis for executive leadership, board presentations, auditors, and regulatory bodies.
- Serve as a change agent by challenging the status quo and driving continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (CPA, CMA, MBA, or advanced certifications preferred).
- 5 years of operations finance experience with strong knowledge of financial and non-financial metrics, product costing, and LEAN manufacturing practices.
- 5 years of strategic finance experience supporting key business leaders and initiatives.
- Advanced knowledge of cost accounting, financial modeling, and data analysis; ability to evaluate ROI and support strategic decisions.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence across functions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel required); experience with tools such as Business Objects, Power BI, Oracle ERP/EPM, and Salesforce CRM preferred.
- Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment while managing multiple priorities.
- Fluency in English, both written and verbal.