About the Role
<p><strong>Role:</strong> Cost Accountant</p><p><strong>Location:</strong> Knutsford, Parkgate Industrial Estate (office based)</p><p><strong>Work Pattern: </strong>Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:00</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>About Us</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Key Responsibilities</strong><br>As a hands-on Cost Accountant, you will act as the key link between production and finance:</p><ul><li><p>Margin Protection: Review projects to assess real GM vs budget</p></li><li><p>Inventory Control: Manage surplus and obsolete stock to optimise cash flow</p></li><li><p>Operational Auditing: Review labour, overtime, and rework accuracy in ERP (Syteline)</p></li><li><p>Standard Costing: Maintain and roll up standard costs to ensure accurate reporting</p></li><li><p>Stock Control: Lead cycle counts and resolve discrepancies</p></li><li><p>Global Support: Provide analytical support to international operations</p></li></ul><p><strong>What You’ll Bring</strong></p><ul><li><p>Proven experience as a Cost Accountant in manufacturing</p></li><li><p>Strong knowledge of WIP, standard costing, and variance analysis</p></li><li><p>Confident challenger mindset with the ability to influence operations</p></li><li><p>Advanced Excel and ERP/MRP systems experience (Syteline preferred)</p></li><li><p>CIMA qualified (essential)</p></li></ul><p><strong>What’s On Offer for the Cost Accountant</strong></p><ul><li><p>Competitive salary (dependent on experience)</p></li><li><p>31 days holiday (including bank holidays)</p></li><li><p>Medi-Cash plan, pension, and long service awards</p></li><li><p>Opportunity to make a direct commercial impact</p></li></ul><p><strong>Apply</strong><br>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.</p>