Cost Controller (Manufacturing)

About This Role

Our client, an international manufacturing company is looking for a Cost Controller to be based in Jebel Ali, Dubai.

You will be responsible for monitoring, analysing and optimising all manufacturing-related costs to support accurate financial reporting, improve operational efficiency and ensure effective cost management across the business. This role works closely with production, supply chain, finance and management to provide insights that drive profitability and cost discipline.

Key Responsibilities

1. Cost Monitoring & Analysis

• Track, analyse and report manufacturing costs including raw materials, labour, overheads and production variances.
• Monitor standard costs vs. actuals and investigate any deviations.
• Conduct margin and profitability analysis for products, lines and customers.
• Maintain accurate cost data in ERP systems and ensure BOM and routing accuracy.

2. Budgeting & Forecasting

• Support preparation of annual budgets, quarterly forecasts and cost projections.
• Build and maintain cost models to support operational and financial decision-making.
• Provide cost estimates for new products, engineering changes and production trials.

3. Inventory & Stock Control

• Monitor inventory valuation and ensure correct costing of raw materials, WIP and finished goods.
• Support monthly stock counts, cycle counts and reconcile discrepancies.
• Ensure proper costing of scrap, rework and waste.

4. Operational Control & Process Improvement

• Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead cost-optimisation initiatives.
• Review production processes to highlight inefficiencies and recommend corrective actions.
• Work with production and supply chain to track KPIs related to yield, machine efficiency and labour utilisation.

5. Reporting

• Prepare monthly cost reports, variance analyses, dashboards and management presentations.
• Provide clear recommendations based on trends and cost drivers.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and audit requirements.

6. ERP & Data Integrity

• Maintain and update cost-related data in the ERP system (BOM, routings, standard costs).
• Ensure accurate allocation of overhead rates and cost centres.
• Support system improvements or upgrades related to costing.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Industrial Engineering, or similar.
• Professional qualification (CIMA, ACCA, CPA) preferred.
• 3–7 years’ experience in cost control or management accounting, preferably in manufacturing.
• Strong ERP experience (e.g., SAP, Dynamics BC, Oracle, Infor).
• Advanced Excel and financial analysis skills.
• Strong analytical mindset and attention to detail.