7 Cost Managers jobs in South Africa

• BCom in Management Accounting or BCom Honours (or equivalent).
• A professional certification such as CIMA is a strong advantage.
• At least 8 years of experience in manufacturing costing or cost accounting as a cost manager.
• Expertise in standard costing, variance analysis, and overhead allocation is required.
• Experience in a multi-process manufacturing environment is beneficial.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems for costing, preferably Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central or SAGE.
• Advanced Excel skills are essential.
• Familiarity with business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI) is a plus.

• Business Acumen:
  • Strong commercial awareness and the ability to see the big-picture impact of costing decisions on profitability and strategy.
  • Proven track record of influencing decision-making through analysis.
• Analytical Skills:
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, capable of identifying discrepancies and summarising key takeaways.
  • Experience in translating complex data into actionable insights.
• Communication and Collaboration:
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to explain cost concepts to non-financial colleagues and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Experience presenting to senior management is highly valued.
• Leadership and Integrity:
  • Proven ability to lead or supervise others, even in a project or informal capacity.
  • High level of integrity and professionalism, handling sensitive cost data responsibly, and proactively managing responsibilities.

• Oversee the accurate calculation of product costs, maintaining up-to-date standard costs for all raw materials, components, and finished goods.
• Review and update BOMs and routing costs to reflect current production processes and pricing.
• Manage and monitor overhead cost allocation across different manufacturing processes.
• Govern various costing models to achieve 100% overhead recovery, continuously evaluating and recommending rate adjustments as needed.
• Analyse production cost variances, investigate root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Provide monthly cost performance reports, translating findings into operational or pricing recommendations.
• Work closely with Production, Technical, Quality, and Finance teams to gather accurate data and improve cost accuracy.
• Coordinate on yield improvements, process changes, and scrap/rework costs, ensuring all departments understand their impact on product cost.
• Serve as the subject-matter expert for costing in the ERP system (Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central).
• Maintain accurate costing data, resolve system issues, develop useful cost reports, and safeguard data integrity.
• Collaborate with finance and sales teams on transfer prices and pricing strategies, providing reliable cost information and analysis.
• Support price list preparation with accurate cost and profitability analysis.
• Work with the inventory control team during stock counts to ensure accurate inventory valuation, reconcile variances, and oversee adjustments in the ERP.
• Prepare clear presentations on cost findings and improvement plans for senior leadership.
• Report directly to the Head of Controlling & Internal Audit and occasionally to the CFO/CEO on critical cost issues.
• Lead and mentor a small team of cost accountants/analysts, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Refine costing methodologies and processes while staying updated with industry best practices and introducing relevant ideas to the organisation.
• Ensure costing practices align with internal control frameworks and external audit requirements.

Location:
Glasgow / Hybrid

Talented people are the key to our success
Shape the Future of the UK's Power Infrastructure
Our Energy Business Unit are delivering the backbone of tomorrow's energy grid. We're strengthening our engineering capability to deliver major overhead line (OHL) and transmission projects across the UK. We're now seeking a Senior Engineering Manager (OHL) to lead engineering delivery across high-voltage transmission schemes from concept to completion.

The Role
We have a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious and talented Cost Manager within our Energy business unit.
The successful candidate will be joining the existing team of passionate and dedicated professionals. Working with our Infrastructure business,
previous cost or finance manager experience is a must.
The role will encompass finance and commercial reporting and analysis for the finance team and the customer including the processing of financial data to compile payment applications, efficiency trackers and KPI reporting.

We are looking for people who share our passion for the project at hand whilst also being able to work within a fun and hardworking team environment.

Already experienced as a Cost Manager you will be knowledgeable in finance or commercial project delivery. You will also have solid Microsoft office skills – particularly Excel and Access.

What's in it for you?
Below is a selection of benefits that are available to you at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure.

• Generous holiday entitlement with the option to buy five days
• Flexible and adaptable working
• Family friendly policies and work/life approach
• Mentoring programmes and continuous learning support
• Contributory pension scheme
• Annual bonus scheme
• Recognition scheme and long service awards
• Car scheme and Private Medical Insurance (if applicable to role)
• We also provide the option to participate in our share-save scheme; discounts including cycle to work and gym membership; a support and advice service for colleagues and their families, and more.

About Our Energy Business Unit
We have extensive experience in upgrading and replacing energy networks, delivering asset management for major UK energy companies and network operators.

Our transmission and distribution services involve the upgrading and replacement of electricity assets both above and below ground. Within the electricity sector we install and maintain assets, including excavation, laying and jointing of cables, (fluid filled and XLPe), substations and overhead line, new build, repair and refurbishment services.

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our team where you will have the opportunity to progress in your career. We are looking for people who share our passion on delivering great customer service whilst also being able to work within an enjoyable and hardworking team environment. Talented people are the key to our success, so if this sounds like you, apply now.

Morgan Sindall is an equal opportunities employer and has been accredited with the Positive About Disabled People 'Two Ticks' accreditation. We are also an Investors in People company.
Morgan Sindall is unable to employ anyone who does not have the legal right to live and work in the UK.

Through our client-facing brands Metropolitan and Momentum, with Multiply (wellness and rewards programme), and our other specialist brands, including Guardrisk and Eris Property Group, the group enables business and people from all walks of life to achieve their financial goals and life aspirations. We help people grow their savings, protect what matters to them and invest for the future. We help companies and organisations care for and reward their employees and members. Through our own network of advisers or via independent brokers and utilising new platforms Momentum Metropolitan provides practical financial solutions for people, communities and businesses.

Disclaimer As an applicant, please verify the legitimacy of this job advert on our company career page.

Role Purpose
To ascertain and analyse costs, provide cost data to Momentum Investments management in order to facilitate decisions pertaining to expenditure, and to provide expert advice regarding cost control mechanisms.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Commerce with articles
• CIMA / CA(SA) added advantage
• 3-5 years' experience in a similar role
• Microsoft Excel proficiency (Advanced level)
• Proficient in Financial services, life insurance would be advantageous
• Listed company experience preferable

Duties & Responsibilities
Process:

• Manage the annual expense budget process for the Momentum Investments business unit within Momentum Group guidelines. This entails providing expert advice to the business in terms of the process to be followed and the feasibility of budgets submitted in view of prior expense trends and business/ operational plans.
• Ensure a robust cost allocation mechanism is in place through periodical activity-based costing analysis.
• Facilitate monthly expense allocations to ensure that costs are allocated to the appropriate legal entities and according to approved Momentum Investments cost level splits.
• Provide management with insight on monthly expenditure and variations from budget to facilitate business decisions regarding expense management.
• Assist with managing the risk of overspending within the business unit through scenario planning and providing a forecast of associated expenses.
• Perform a headcount analysis to provide information regarding actual versus budgeted headcount, replacement costs, and the cost impact of staff movements.
• Manage high risk and problematic expense management issues in various areas of accountability and contribute to the development of guidelines and policies for the Momentum Investments business unit in alignment with Momentum Group policies.
• Oversee Intercompany and interdivisional expense charges for the support functions. This involves providing insight on allocation basis applied.
• Manage the integrity of the procurement system to ensure correct authorisation of users and the implementation of financial regulations.
• Act as liaison between the business unit and other Momentum Group functions on matters pertaining to expense management.

Client

• Continuously monitor turnaround times and quality standards and resolve issues speedily to enhance client service delivery.
• Deliver on service level agreements made with clients and internal and external stakeholders to ensure that client expectations are managed.
• Make recommendations to improve client service and fair treatment of clients within area of responsibility.
• Participate and contribute to a culture which builds rewarding relationships, facilitates feedback and provides exceptional client service.

Manage budget and implement sound financial controls

• Contribute to the financial planning process within area.
• Identify opportunities to enhance cost effectiveness and increase operational efficiency.
• Provide input into the risk identification processes and communicate recommendations in the appropriate forum.

Competencies

• Excellent written communication skills, with an ability to work well in a collaborative environment
• Strong skills in presenting complex information to a diverse audience.
• Ability to draft commentary and analyse information to establish key messages
• Ability to develop and manage relationships with multiple stakeholders in the business
• Able to manage stress, pressure and competing demands.
• Self-starter - can run independently with large projects.
• Adhere to governance, risk and compliance requirements.

Job Description

To ensure quality of the product/ service as generated by the business and productivity targets are met by leveraging resources, support functions and relationships across the business

• Demonstrate leadership behaviour through personal involvement, commitment and dedication in support of organisational values
• Develop tactical strategy and delivery plans in support of functional strategic objectives in partnership with leadership
• Establish mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders, that support thought leadership, innovative and integrated practice solutions
• Anticipate and meet the needs of clients and commit to continuous development and entrenchment of a customer service culture
• Draw up a budget aligned to tactical delivery plans, monitor effectiveness and report on variances
• Manage expenditure planning and reporting within approved budget parameters
• Develop new insights into situations and apply innovative solutions to make organisational improvements
• Manage people by executing management responsibilities and create an environment that encourages employee growth and performance excellence
• Improve business profitability through efficient use of profitability model
• Conduct cost analysis, interpret and provide insights to the business to support decision making and to seek new ways to improve profitability
• Conduct review, scenario planning and overall budgetary process in terms of spend and forecast adjustments
• Review, analyse and/or build, implement and maintain cost models aligned to standard drivers and methodologies to reflect both business expectations and Steerco guidance
• Drive, influence and manage creative business solutions, optimise processes and inform strategic decisions through cost modelling and data analysis
• Manage end to end costing projects involving a segment, business unit, function or country/region from strategy articulation through to model design and implementation

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum Qualification - Relevant Diploma/ Undergraduate Degree in Finance, Costing, Mathematics or similar
• Preferred Qualification - Relevant postgraduate degree, Financial or analytical modelling, qualifications, CIMA or ACCA
• 4 to 5 years' experience in costing/commercial/ finance/pricing
• Knowledge and experience in Analytics Costing/Pricing principles CIMA/Associate General Accounting (SA)/ACCA or SAIPA

Additional Requirements

In accordance with National Credit Act (NCA) candidates applying for this role will require a credit record check.

SQL experience & PowerBi (Preferred)

Job Details

Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.

12/09/25

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group's Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.

Introduction

Through our client-facing brands Metropolitan and Momentum, with Multiply (wellness and rewards programme), and our other specialist brands, including Guardrisk and Eris Property Group, the group enables business and people from all walks of life to achieve their financial goals and life aspirations. We help people grow their savings, protect what matters to them and invest for the future. We help companies and organisations care for and reward their employees and members. Through our own network of advisers or via independent brokers and utilising new platforms Momentum Metropolitan provides practical financial solutions for people, communities and businesses.

Disclaimer

As an applicant, please verify the legitimacy of this job advert on our company career page.

Role Purpose

To ascertain and analyse costs, provide cost data to Momentum Investments management in order to facilitate decisions pertaining to expenditure, and to provide expert advice regarding cost control mechanisms.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Commerce with articles

• CIMA / CA(SA) added advantage

• 3-5 years' experience in a similar role

• Microsoft Excel proficiency (Advanced level)

• Proficient in Financial services, life insurance would be advantageous

• Listed company experience preferable

Duties & Responsibilities

Process:

• Manage the annual expense budget process for the Momentum Investments business unit within Momentum Group guidelines. This entails providing expert advice to the business in terms of the process to be followed and the feasibility of budgets submitted in view of prior expense trends and business/ operational plans.

• Ensure a robust cost allocation mechanism is in place through periodical activity-based costing analysis.

• Facilitate monthly expense allocations to ensure that costs are allocated to the appropriate legal entities and according to approved Momentum Investments cost level splits.

• Provide management with insight on monthly expenditure and variations from budget to facilitate business decisions regarding expense management.

• Assist with managing the risk of overspending within the business unit through scenario planning and providing a forecast of associated expenses.

• Perform a headcount analysis to provide information regarding actual versus budgeted headcount, replacement costs, and the cost impact of staff movements.

• Manage high risk and problematic expense management issues in various areas of accountability and contribute to the development of guidelines and policies for the Momentum Investments business unit in alignment with Momentum Group policies.

• Oversee Intercompany and interdivisional expense charges for the support functions. This involves providing insight on allocation basis applied.

• Manage the integrity of the procurement system to ensure correct authorisation of users and the implementation of financial regulations.

• Act as liaison between the business unit and other Momentum Group functions on matters pertaining to expense management.

Client

• Continuously monitor turnaround times and quality standards and resolve issues speedily to enhance client service delivery.

• Deliver on service level agreements made with clients and internal and external stakeholders to ensure that client expectations are managed.

• Make recommendations to improve client service and fair treatment of clients within area of responsibility.

• Participate and contribute to a culture which builds rewarding relationships, facilitates feedback and provides exceptional client service.

Manage budget and implement sound financial controls

• Contribute to the financial planning process within area.

• Identify opportunities to enhance cost effectiveness and increase operational efficiency.

• Provide input into the risk identification processes and communicate recommendations in the appropriate forum.

Competencies

• Excellent written communication skills, with an ability to work well in a collaborative environment

• Strong skills in presenting complex information to a diverse audience.

• Ability to draft commentary and analyse information to establish key messages

• Ability to develop and manage relationships with multiple stakeholders in the business

• Able to manage stress, pressure and competing demands.

• Self-starter - can run independently with large projects.

• Adhere to governance, risk and compliance requirements.

• Prepare annual budgets, forecasts, and cashflows for the smaller group companies, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely submission;


• Oversee inventory transactions and ensure accurate reconciliation between the stock and finance systems, while driving automation and process integration to enhance efficiency;


• Manage the accounting processes and financial reporting for smaller group companies;


• Prepare audit related schedules as and when require;


• Ensure a robust cost control environment, working capital discipline, and accurate accruals;


• Provide leadership by acting as a resource, coach, and mentor, while setting clear team goals aligned with business objectives;


• Drive accountability and high performance by monitoring outputs, enforcing deadlines, and supporting continuous adherence to finance policies;


• Lead by example to foster a collaborative, disciplined and results-oriented work environment that recognises and rewards success;


• Support team members in overcoming barriers to productivity and goal achievement;


• Handle sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment;


• Manage the accountants responsible for inventory reconciliations and the accounting of smaller group companies;


• Produce accurate monthly and quarterly financial reports, ensuring reconciliations are complete and aligned with IFRS and company policies;


• Report on inventory movements, reconciliations between stock and finance systems, and results of smaller group companies;


• Conduct variance analysis on stock movements and direct operating costs, reporting significant deviations to stakeholders with clear explanations and actionable recommendations;


• Manage the relationship between auditors and the Finance Department, ensuring all audit queries are resolved efficiently and accurately;


• Review and approve audit schedules to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with IFRS and company policies, while confirming the audit readiness of smaller group companies’ accounts;


• Assist the Senior Manager: Finance in the annual audit process by coordinating information and deliverables from team members and other departments;


• Engage with internal stakeholders (Operations, Supply Chain, Commercial, and other Finance teams) to ensure finance-related processes are completed accurately and on time;


• Collaborate with external partners, auditors, and service providers to maintain accurate reconciliations, resolve queries, and ensure compliance;


• Support negotiations or reviews of financial terms by preparing accurate data, reconciliations, variance explanations, and scenario analysis;


• Participate in discussions and negotiations with regulatory and government bodies (e.g., ACSA, ATNS), reviewing and challenging the basis for proposed price increases or charges to safeguard the organisation’s interests;


• Ensure compliance of accounting records are accurate and comply with IFRS;


• Drive adherence to finance policies and procedures across departments, escalating non-compliance to the Senior Manager: Finance;


• Maintain compliance with all relevant legislation and regulatory requirements;


• Apply a thorough understanding of contractual agreements and regulatory charges to ensure accurate billing, accruals, and allocations;


• Ensure smaller group companies’ accounts comply with statutory filing requirements.

• Grade 12 or Equivalent (Essential);


• BCom degree in Finance or Accounting (Essential);


• BCom Honours in Finance or Accounting OR 6 years Aviation experience (Essential);


• Professional certification such as SAIPA, SAICA or relevant (Essential);


• Chartered Accountant CA (SA) (Advantageous);


• 10 years’ Finance experience in a mid-sized organisation, of which, 3 years’ must have been in a management role (Essential);


• Must have completed articles (Essential);


• Experience in budget preparation and reporting (Essential);


• Experience in the preparing and finalising accounts in accordance with current South African regulations (Essential);


• Exposure to working across multiple systems and ensuring reconciliations between finance and operational systems (Essential);


• Experience in an accounting software package (Advantageous).

Personal Attributes:

• Professional;


• High integrity;


• High degree of patience and assertiveness;


• Must have a passion for costing/accounting;


• Initiative-taking;


• Ethical, tactful, dependable and accountable;


• Process- and results-driven;


• Self-motivated;


• Reliable and committed;


• Dependable and flexible.

Application Guideline:

• Email applications will not be accepted;


• Preference will be given to members of under-represented designated groups;


• Should no feedback be provided within two (2) weeks from the closing date, please consider your application as unsuccessful.

FlySafair reserves the right:

• Not to proceed with this vacancy;


• To appoint the selected candidates based on its operational requirements.

Closing Date: 10 October 2025