Cost Controller

SUMMARY:
Drive Cost Efficiency. Protect Profitability. Influence Business Performance.

POSITION INFO:
An exciting opportunity exists for a commercially astute and analytical Cost Controller to join a dynamic, project-driven business environment.

Reporting directly to the Group Financial Manager, you will take ownership of direct cost management, ensuring effective control of labour, transport, consumables, and operational overheads while driving continuous improvements in gross profit performance.

This role is based in Paarden Eiland.

Key Responsibilities:

Cost Control & Analysis

• Monitor and control labour, transport, consumables, and operational costs against budget and revenue targets.
• Implement and improve cost control systems and procedures across the business.
• Track project costs from quotation stage through to project completion, ensuring budget adherence.
• Conduct detailed variance analysis and identify root causes of cost overruns.
• Review labour deployment, overtime, productivity levels, and resource utilization.
• Analyse transport and logistics costs to identify efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.
• Perform post-project cost reviews and provide recommendations for future budgeting and estimating.
• Generate weekly Gross Profit reports and highlight projects requiring immediate intervention.

Commercial & Operational Support

• Participate in sales and operational planning meetings, providing cost and margin insights.
• Review costing assumptions and profitability of major quotations before submission.
• Support pricing strategies through accurate cost analysis and forecasting.
• Work closely with Estimation, Procurement, Operations, and Finance teams to improve cost accuracy and profitability.

Reporting & Financial Administration

• Develop and maintain automated reporting dashboards and KPI monitoring tools.
• Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end financial close processes.
• Ensure accurate cost allocations, accruals, and project accounting.
• Maintain master cost data within ERP systems and recommend process improvements.
• Prepare branch cost comparisons, productivity reports, and management reporting packs.
• Train operational teams on cost management principles and internal controls.

• BCom Degree in Cost & Management Accounting, Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
• Advanced Diploma in Cost & Management Accounting will also be considered.
• Professional qualifications or studies towards CIMA, SAIPA, ACCA will be advantageous.
• 3–8 years' experience in Cost Controlling or Cost Accounting.
• Experience within project-based environments such as events, exhibitions, manufacturing, construction, engineering, logistics, or hospitality.
• Exposure to multi-site operations and job costing environments is essential.