Cost Accountant

We are partnering exclusively with SteriPack, a leading global healthcare manufacturing organisation, to recruit an experienced Cost and Business Analyst (Manufacturing). This is a key strategic role role within a high-volume manufacturing environment, offering significant exposure to senior stakeholders and the opportunity to influence operational performance, cost optimisation, and strategic decision-making. The position provides strong scope for professional development within a growing, quality-driven organisation operating to the highest industry standards.

POSITION TITLE:

• Cost & Business Analyst (Manufacturing)

DEPARTMENT

• Finance

REPORTING TO:

• Financial Controller

POSITION OVERVIEW:

• The Cost & Business Analyst will play a critical role in analysing and managing operational costs for a high-volume manufacturing site. This position combines strong financial acumen with analytical skills to provide actionable insights that drive efficiency, cost optimization, and strategic decision-making. The role requires close collaboration with operations, finance, and leadership teams to ensure accurate cost reporting and data-driven continuous improvement.

• Compliance with ISO 13485:  SteriPack Ireland adherence to ISO 13485 standard, including the responsibility for maintaining and improving the quality management system. All employees shall contribute to this aspect where reasonable and depending on the scope of the position responsibilities.

• Documentation and Record Keeping: The creation, maintenance, and management of quality-related documents and records is an aspect of all employees. Adherence to document best practices as described in internal procedures are critical towards adherence to ISO 13485 standard.

• Effective communication with other departments, management, and regulatory authorities regarding quality issues and compliance with ISO 13485 is an aspect where reasonable and depending on the scope of the position responsibilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Involved in the day-to-day operations of the Finance function, including but not limited to:

• Conduct detailed operational cost analysis, including material, labour, and overhead variances.
• Develop and maintain cost models to support budgeting, forecasting, and scenario planning.
• Partner with operations to identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.
• Prepare monthly management reports with clear insights and recommendations.
• Support capital investment analysis and ROI evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and relevant accounting standards.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS

Qualifications:

Required: Professional accounting qualification (e.g., CIMA, ACCA, CPA) or equivalent for compliance.

Alternative: Degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Analytics with proven cost accounting experience in manufacturing.

Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of cost accounting principles and manufacturing cost structures.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis practices.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

Skills:

• Advanced Excel and data modelling skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.

RELEVENT EXPERENCE:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment with a focus on cost accounting and operational analysis.
• Experience in preparing management reports and supporting decision-making processes.
• Exposure to ERP systems and data visualization tools.
• Proven track record of identifying cost-saving opportunities and driving process improvements.

PERSON SPECIFICATION AND CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.
• Strong business acumen and ability to see the bigger picture.
• Proactive and results-driven mindset.
• Ability to work independently while being a collaborative team player.
• Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and a strong work ethic.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Effective communicator who can influence and build relationships across functions.