Cost Accounting Manager

Job description

What to Expect

The Cost Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing all cost accounting activities within a global motorcycling manufacturing and distribution environment. This role ensures accurate product costing, inventory valuation, and financial reporting, while driving cost control initiatives and supporting operational efficiency. The ideal candidate has deep experience in preferably, automotive or related manufacturing and strong expertise in SAP, preferably SAP S/4Hana. 

Key Responsibilities

Cost Accounting & Reporting 

• Manage and oversee all cost accounting functions, of which parts are outsourced to a shared service center, including standard costing, variance analysis, and inventory valuation 

• Maintain and update standard costs for finished goods, parts and overhead allocations, within SAP 

• Calculate and account for obsolescence and warranty reserves 

• Analyze and report production variances (material, labor, overhead) and provide actionable insights 

• Ensure accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes related to inventory and cost of goods sold  

SAP System Management 

• Act as key user for SAP inventory accounting 

• Maintain cost centers, profit centers, internal orders, and product costing structures in SAP 

• Drive continuous improvements in SAP reporting, costing accuracy, and process efficiency 

• Support SAP enhancements, upgrades, and implementation projects 

Business Partnering 

• Partner with Operations, Logistics and Engineering teams to understand cost drivers and support decision-making 

• Provide financial support for new product launches, engineering changes, and other initiatives 

• Develop and monitor KPIs related to manufacturing efficiency, scrap, and productivity 

Budgeting & Forecasting 

• Lead COGS-related budgeting and forecasting processes 

• Monitor actual performance against budgets and forecast deviations 

• Support long-term cost planning and strategic initiatives 

Compliance & Controls 

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting standards, and company policies 

• Support audits related to inventory and cost accounting 

• Maintain accurate documentation and audit trails within SAP 

Continuous Improvement 

• Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead cost reduction initiatives 

• Optimize costing processes and reporting tools 

• Drive best practices in cost transparency and operational finance 

Job requirements

Skills and Attributes

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field 

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in cost accounting within the automotive or manufacturing industry 

• Proven experience in a managerial or leadership role 

• Strong experience with SAP (CO module required; FI/MM preferred) 

Technical Skills 

• Advanced SAP knowledge (product costing, cost center accounting, profitability analysis) 

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes (BOMs, routings, standard costing) 

• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills 

• Experience with BI tools (e.g., Power BI, SAP BW) is a plus 

Soft Skills 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities 

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment 

• Strong leadership and team development skills 

Key Competencies 

• Financial acumen and business insight 

• Attention to detail and accuracy 

• Continuous improvement mindset 

• Strategic thinking with hands-on execution 

• Cross-functional collaboration 

Why Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles, a leader and innovator in electric motorcycles and commercial powertrains, incorporates advanced technology, stunning design and commitment to environmental benefits. The EV space is growing dramatically, with Zero a leader in the two-wheel category and a rising star in powertrain applications to other OEMs electrifying sport and utility vehicles for powersport and industrial applications.

At Zero Motorcycles, you’ll join a passionate, fast-growing global team with a truly international spirit. While our roots in the United States, have branched-out to Europe and stablished in The Netherlands, our team now spans across more than 10 countries, representing over 15 nationalities—and counting! We thrive in a multicultural, multilingual environment where fresh ideas are welcomed, big dreams are encouraged, and success is celebrated together.

Our team is united by a shared mission and a love for what we do. Whether we're collaborating across time zones or catching up in the office, you'll find a group that’s driven, committed, and always ready to share a laugh.

We value connection beyond the work itself. From office lunches and Friday drinks to spontaneous barbecues when the sun’s out, and legendary Xmas parties and team-building days, we believe in having fun while we work hard.

Working with Zero Motorcycles, you’ll also have opportunities to represent us at events and trade shows—locally and internationally—if that’s something you enjoy. And as we continue to grow, so can you. We’re invested in your development and success, and we can’t wait to see where your journey with us will take you.

Additionally

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Inclusive and open-door culture with driven, fun colleagues.
• Work in a dynamic, innovative environment leading the EV revolution.

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