Cost Accounting Manager

Cost Accounting Manager - Multi Manufacturing Plants- Atlanta About the Opportunity We are seeking an experienced Cost Accounting Manager to establish and oversee a centralized cost accounting function supporting a multi-site manufacturing organization. This role will be instrumental in strengthening product costing, inventory controls, financial reporting, and cost analysis across several manufacturing facilities. The ideal candidate combines strong manufacturing accounting expertise with leadership skills and the ability to partner effectively with Operations, Supply Chain, FP&A, and plant leadership. Key Responsibilities Establish and oversee the company’s cost accounting function, providing consistent processes and standards across multiple manufacturing locations. Manage the development and ongoing maintenance of standard product costs, including annual cost updates and periodic revisions. Evaluate and refine costing methodologies covering raw materials, direct labor, manufacturing overhead, and freight. Review manufacturing, inventory, and production variances and translate findings into meaningful recommendations for improving financial and operational performance. Take an active role in the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close, including inventory accounting, account reconciliations, reserves, journal entries, and reporting. Collaborate with plant operations, Supply Chain, FP&A, and other business leaders to improve BOM accuracy, inventory integrity, and product costing. Lead the coordination of physical inventory counts and cycle-count activities across the manufacturing network. Develop and maintain effective internal controls, with responsibility for supporting SOX compliance requirements. Coordinate cost accounting activities associated with internal and external audits and serve as a key accounting resource during the audit process. Identify opportunities to streamline processes, enhance ERP functionality, strengthen inventory controls, and improve the quality and accessibility of management reporting. Lead and develop the cost accounting team, establishing clear expectations, processes, and accountability. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline. 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including substantial responsibility within a manufacturing environment. At least 5 years of experience leading, supervising, or developing accounting professionals. Demonstrated experience with standard costing in a manufacturing organization. Strong knowledge of GAAP, inventory accounting, and manufacturing cost accounting. Experience with financial close activities and inventory management processes. Experience working with an ERP system; SAP experience is preferred. Advanced Excel capabilities and strong financial reporting skills. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Preferred Background CPA, CMA, and/or MBA. Experience supporting multi-location manufacturing operations. Background working with external audits, internal controls, and SOX compliance. Demonstrated ability to identify inefficiencies and implement process improvements and cost accounting best practices. To be considered, please submit resume and salary requirements to kathy@stafffinancial.com