Cost Analyst

Cost Analyst - Ayrshire

Pertemps are currently working with a client in the Ayrshire area who is going through a period of change and therefore have a requirement for a Cost Analyst to join the team on a 12 month fixed term contract basis.  There is a strong possibility that this role will become permanent. 

This role is fully onsite but does offer flexibility.  Salary circa £40k + bonus + benefits.

You will act as the key financial contact and trusted partner to operational functions on site, providing insightful financial support and guidance. The role requires developing a comprehensive understanding of cost structures, alongside identifying key risks and opportunities to enhance business performance.

You will be responsible for clearly communicating financial performance to stakeholders at all levels, including both finance and non-finance audiences. In addition, the role supports critical business requirements related to supply chain and materials financial management, including analysis of actuals, forecasting, and governance of financial processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and review cost reporting packs for internal and group reporting requirements
• Support and maintain financial models used in the quarterly forecasting process
• Analyse and challenge functional inputs across labour, non-labour, and material costs
• Conduct monthly performance reviews with operational teams against budget and forecast
• Ensure accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial data used in planning and reporting
• Prepare detailed and complex financial performance reports for stakeholders
• Manage and interpret large volumes of data, presenting insights clearly using strong IT tools
• Review cost variation reports and ensure accurate integration into bills of materials
• Provide financial guidance and support to business functions on matters impacting performance
• Maintain overall integrity and reliability of financial reporting
• Monitor labour and overhead performance against budget and forecasts
• Support annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting cycles with robust analysis
• Track and analyse supply chain performance against financial targets
• Deliver timely and accurate financial analysis with clear commentary
• Support the Estimate at Completion (EAC) process, including variance analysis across periods
• Build strong cross-functional relationships to ensure accuracy and alignment of financial inputs into forecasts and EACs

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Degree-qualified, with relevant professional experience
• Studying towards a professional qualification (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA), or qualified by experience
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present to non-finance stakeholders
• Advanced IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel
• Proven ability to identify and drive process improvements
• Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Self-motivated with a proactive and flexible approach to work
• Confident and assertive, with the ability to challenge where appropriate
• Strong interpersonal skills with a positive and collaborative mindset
• Commitment to continuous professional development
• Effective decision-making skills

To apply or find out more, please get in touch for a confidential discussion.
Pertemps acts as both an employment business and an employment agency