Our client, a leading player in the milling and manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced and detail-driven Cost Accountant to join their team in Harare.
This role is pivotal in ensuring accurate costing, financial reporting, and analysis of production activities. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing and analysing production costs, monitoring inventory, and providing insights that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and drive informed decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Cost Accounting & Analysis
- Maintain accurate costing records and models for production and projects.
- Conduct detailed analysis of manufacturing costs (direct labour, materials, overheads).
- Monitor and report on purchase price variances and production efficiency.
- Perform yield and production calculations, ensuring accuracy between standard and actual results.
- Analyse variances (actual vs. standard costs), investigate discrepancies, and recommend corrective actions.
- Regularly review and validate Bills of Materials (BOMs) against actual production.
Inventory & Production Management
- Oversee inventory valuation and ensure accurate recording in the financial system.
- Collaborate with production teams to reconcile physical inventory with accounting records.
- Support and oversee stock counts and stock reconciliations.
- Monitor daily posting of production and transfer orders.
Reporting & Budgeting
- Prepare monthly management reports related to cost and production performance.
- Assist with budgeting and forecasting, including pricing structures and production costs.
- Provide insights and recommendations to management to support strategic decision-making.
- Support month-end close processes, including reconciliations and journal entries.
Compliance & Process Improvement
- Ensure compliance with accounting standards, company policies, and local regulations.
- Assist in internal and external audits related to production and costing.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvements across the manufacturing cycle.
Qualifications & Experience
- Education: BCom in Accounting, Finance, or related field (essential).
- Professional qualifications such as CIMA, ACCA, ICAZ, or SAICA articles will be an added advantage.
- Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in Cost Accounting within a manufacturing or milling environment.
- Solid knowledge of manufacturing processes, inventory management, and variance analysis.
- Strong proficiency in Excel (advanced level).
- Experience with ERP or accounting systems (e.g., Sage, SAP, Syspro, Navision, or similar).
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong analytical and numeracy skills with exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines under pressure.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with cross-functional teams.
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to recommend and implement solutions.
- Team player with a high standard of work ethic and professionalism.
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Position Type: Full-time
Why Join?
- Work with a leading milling and manufacturing business in Zimbabwe.
- Play a central role in improving financial efficiency and operational effectiveness.
- Be part of a dynamic and results-driven team where your contribution will make a direct impact.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a brief motivation to info@sapientis.co.za, with subject line: Cost Accountant – Harare (Milling).