Cost Accountant

Role: Cost Accountant

Location: Knutsford Parkgate Industrial Estate (office based)

Work Pattern: Monday to Friday 08:30 17:00 with 30-minute lunch break

We are looking for a commercially sharp manufacturing-focused Cost Accountant to join our Finance team. This is a boots-on-the-ground role for a professional who thrives on the factory floor as much as in a spreadsheet. Your mission: protect and maximize Gross Margin (GM) through rigorous financial control and operational insight.

About Us

With over 45 years of valve technology innovations Oliver Valves is a global leader in the design manufacture and supply of high-quality valves and valve systems serving industries such as oil and gas petrochemical and other critical sectors. We have won recognised awards for Export Manufacturing and Growth as well as the coveted Queens Award and more recently Kings Award for Industry. Were a profitable privately owned and fast-moving company looking for talented individuals to join our team and deliver our strategic objectives.

What Youll Be Doing

This is a hands-on position designed for a doer who will proactively identify and mitigate GM erosion. You will be the primary link between our production activities and our financial performance.

You will take full ownership of the costs that impact our bottom line. Your focus will be:

• Margin Protection: Audit major projects to evaluate Real GM vs. Budget and proactively address cost leaks.

• Inventory & Sourcing: Manage surplus/obsolete stock and develop sourcing solutions to optimize cash flow.

• Operational Auditing: Review labour overtime and rework processes to ensure ERP data (Syteline) reflects reality.

• Standard Costing: Own the roll-up of standard costs within the ERP to ensure WIP and Cost of Sales accuracy.

• Technical Control: Lead daily cycle counting and challenge discrepancies within the production team.

• Global Support: Provide analytical assistance to our international facility in India.

What Youll Bring

• Manufacturing DNA: You must have a deep understanding of manufacturing cost accounting (WIP Standard Costing and Variances).

• The Challenger Mindset: A strong character who isnt afraid to challenge the status quo or push back on inefficient processes.

• Systems Expertise: High proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (Syteline v10 is a major plus) and advanced Excel.

• Qualifications: CIMA qualified is essential.

• Analytical Rigor: A hawk-like eye for detail balanced with an understanding of the bigger picture.

Whats On Offer

We are a fast-growing leader in the engineering sector valuing fast decision-making and financial excellence. You will have a direct impact on our profitability and the freedom to shape our cost-control environment.

• Salary: Competitive and negotiable (based on manufacturing & ERP experience).

• Benefits: 31 days holiday (inc. bank holidays) Medi-Cash Plan Pension and Long Service Awards.

How to Apply

Submit your CV with a brief cover letter highlighting your experience in manufacturing cost control and Gross Margin improvement.