At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect and maximise Gross Margin through financial control and operational insight.
- Company: Join Oliver Valves, a global leader in valve design and manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 31 days holiday, Medi-Cash plan, and pension.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to influence operations globally.
- Why this job: Make a direct commercial impact in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing cost accounting and advanced Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Knutsford, Parkgate Industrial Estate (office based)
Work Pattern: Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:00
We are seeking a commercially sharp, manufacturing-focused Cost Accountant to join our Finance team. This Cost Accountant role is ideal for someone who thrives on the factory floor as much as in a spreadsheet. As a Cost Accountant, your mission will be to protect and maximise Gross Margin (GM) through strong financial control and operational insight.
About Us
With over 45 years of innovation, Oliver Valves is a global leader in valve design and manufacturing. As a growing, profitable business, we are now looking to strengthen our team with an experienced Cost Accountant who can drive financial performance in a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Margin Protection: Review projects to assess real GM vs budget
- Inventory Control: Manage surplus and obsolete stock to optimise cash flow
- Operational Auditing: Review labour, overtime, and rework accuracy in ERP (Syteline)
- Standard Costing: Maintain and roll up standard costs to ensure accurate reporting
- Stock Control: Lead cycle counts and resolve discrepancies
- Global Support: Provide analytical support to international operations
What You’ll Bring
- Proven experience as a Cost Accountant in manufacturing
- Strong knowledge of WIP, standard costing, and variance analysis
- Confident challenger mindset with the ability to influence operations
- Advanced Excel and ERP/MRP systems experience (Syteline preferred)
- CIMA qualified (essential)
What’s On Offer for the Cost Accountant
- Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
- 31 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- Medi-Cash plan, pension, and long service awards
- Opportunity to make a direct commercial impact
Apply
If you are an experienced Cost Accountant looking to make a difference in a fast-paced manufacturing business, we encourage you to apply with your CV and a short cover letter.
Cost Accountant in Knutsford employer: Oliver Valves Group
At Oliver Valves, we pride ourselves on being a dynamic and innovative employer that values the contributions of our team members. Located in the vibrant Parkgate Industrial Estate in Knutsford, we offer a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development, alongside competitive benefits such as a generous holiday allowance and a Medi-Cash plan. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company where your expertise as a Cost Accountant will directly influence our manufacturing success and financial performance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Accountant in Knutsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local finance meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to cost accounting. Think about how your experience with WIP and standard costing can add value to the role. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills with a portfolio! If you’ve worked on projects that improved gross margins or optimised inventory, gather those examples. It’s a great way to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Accountant in Knutsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in manufacturing and cost accounting. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re passionate about cost accounting and how you can contribute to our team at Oliver Valves.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your advanced Excel skills and any experience with ERP systems like Syteline. We want to see how you can bring value to our operations!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get the ball rolling on your journey with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oliver Valves Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics like Gross Margin and standard costing. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles to drive financial performance.
✨Showcase Your Manufacturing Insight
This role is all about the factory floor as much as it is about spreadsheets. Prepare examples of how you've successfully linked production and finance in previous positions. Highlight any specific projects where your insights made a tangible impact.
✨Master the Tools of the Trade
Familiarity with ERP systems like Syteline is crucial. If you have experience with this or similar software, be prepared to discuss how you've used it for inventory control and operational auditing. If not, do some research to show your willingness to learn.
✨Be a Confident Challenger
The company values a confident mindset that can influence operations. Think of instances where you've challenged the status quo or provided constructive feedback. This will show your potential employer that you're not afraid to speak up and drive change.
