Cost Accounting Manager

As a Cost Accounting Manager at Harbinger Motors, your primary responsibilities include executing monthly closing tasks, preparing journal entries, conducting reconciliations, and analyzing the cost of goods sold (COGS). You'll also manage inventory processes, maintain inventory records, and collaborate with various departments to ensure accurate accounting data.

To qualify for the Cost Accounting Manager position at Harbinger Motors, you should have a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business with a focus on Accounting. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of relevant accounting experience is essential, along with proficiency in inventory management and automated accounting systems, preferably NetSuite.

In your role as a Cost Accounting Manager at Harbinger Motors, you will take charge of the end-to-end inventory processes, including routine cycle counts and the analysis of gross margin variances. Your expertise will ensure that inventory is accurately valued and managed, aiding overall operational efficiency and profitability.

Harbinger Motors prefers candidates for the Cost Accounting Manager role to have experience with NetSuite and advanced proficiency in MS Excel. Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems will also be beneficial for managing inventory and accounting processes effectively.

As a Cost Accounting Manager at Harbinger Motors, you can expect an attractive compensation package that includes comprehensive health coverage, stock options, flexible PTO, and an annual vacation stipend. We also provide paid lunches and dinners to keep our team energized and engaged!

When answering this question, highlight your previous experience with cost accounting systems, including any specific software like NetSuite. Discuss your responsibilities, such as maintaining standard costing systems and how you overcame challenges in implementing or improving these systems.

For this question, illustrate your methodical approach to resolving inventory discrepancies. Discuss processes like performing reconciliations, collaborating with warehouse teams, and utilizing analytical skills to investigate the root causes of discrepancies.

Share a specific example where your analytical skills led to improved financial or operational decisions within your team. Explain the context, your analysis process, and the resulting decisions that benefited the organization.

Discuss your time management and organizational strategies that enable you to juggle multiple accounting projects effectively. Mention tools or techniques you use, such as project management software, checklists, or setting clear priorities based on deadlines and importance.

Identify key metrics such as COGS, inventory turnover rates, and gross margin percentages. Explain why you prioritize these metrics and how you use them in reporting and decision-making at Harbinger Motors.

Highlight your commitment to maintaining compliance by regularly reviewing processes against GAAP standards. Discuss how you stay updated on accounting regulations and emphasize your experience in implementing compliance checks within accounting processes.

Explain the importance of teamwork, especially in collaborating with departments like operations and supply chain. Describe how effective communication and collaboration help you ensure accurate inventory records and financial reporting.

Discuss your involvement in past financial audits, including preparing reports, collaborating with auditors, and implementing recommendations. Emphasize how you address findings to improve financial processes.

Detail your process for analyzing gross margin variances, including collecting data, identifying trends, and preparing reports for management. Highlight an example where your analysis provided actionable insights.

Share specific challenges you've encountered in managing inventory, such as inaccuracies or stock shortages. Discuss the strategies you employed to address these challenges, including process improvements or technology solutions.