Senior Cost Controller

Our client is a fast-growing casual steakhouse brand focused on
delivering exceptional dining experiences across the globe. Is seeking to hire a Senior Cost Controller. 

Position Summary

The Senior Cost Controller is responsible for leading and institutionalizing
the cost control function across assigned entities and locations.
This role ensures gross margin protection, inventory integrity, purchasing
discipline, and financial accuracy across all operating units. The Senior
Cost Controller supervises Junior Cost Controllers, standardizes processes
across markets, and acts as the escalation point for material cost and
inventory discrepancies.
The role plays a critical part in supporting operational performance,
expansion into new markets, and maintaining financial governance as the
company scales.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs)
1. Cost Governance & Margin Protection
2. Team Leadership & Development
3. Inventory & Procurement Oversight
4. Budgeting & Forecast Support
5. Internal Controls & Compliance
6. Reporting & Performance Transparency
7. New Location Onboarding & Expansion Support
8. Process Standardization & Continuous Improvement

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Cost Governance & Margin Protection
Own gross margin accuracy across assigned entities.
Monitor food and beverage cost percentages and investigate
material variances.
Perform variance analysis between theoretical and actual costs.
Approve inventory adjustments and ensure proper documentation.
Act as first escalation point for cost discrepancies before Finance
Manager involvement.
Develop and implement cost-saving initiatives without
compromising brand standards or quality.

2. Team Leadership & Development
Directly manage and supervise Junior Cost Controllers across
entities.
Review and validate all cost reports prior to submission to Finance
leadership.
Ensure consistent application of cost methodology across markets.
Conduct regular performance reviews and provide structured
coaching.
Train team members on systems, inventory procedures, and
reporting standards.
Build team capability to support expansion into new markets.

3. Inventory & Procurement Oversight
Ensure accurate inventory tracking systems are maintained across
all locations.
Oversee periodic stock counts and ensure alignment with
accounting records.
Monitor stock movement, wastage levels, and shrinkage.
Review purchase orders to ensure alignment with budget and
approved suppliers.
Maintain strong coordination with Operations and Supply Chain
teams.


4. Budgeting & Forecast Support
Support preparation of cost budgets and forecasts by entity.
Provide financial insight on cost implications of operational
decisions.
Assist in forecasting COGS and inventory requirements for upcoming
projects.
Ensure cost assumptions are aligned with operational realities.

5. Internal Controls & Compliance
Ensure adherence to company purchasing and inventory control
policies.
Implement and monitor internal controls to safeguard inventory and
assets.
Ensure compliance with financial governance standards across all
markets.
Support audit readiness related to inventory and cost processes.

6. Reporting & Performance Transparency

Prepare weekly and monthly cost reports with clear variance analysis.

Deliver structured reporting on gross margin trends and risk areas.
Ensure timely submission of cost reports in line with the finance
calendar.
Maintain accurate documentation of supplier contracts, inventory
records, and approvals.
Highlight risks early and propose corrective actions.

7. New Location Onboarding & Expansion Support
Lead cost control setup for all new store openings.
Establish Bill of Materials (BOM), menu costing, and system
configuration prior to launch.
Validate supplier pricing and ensure cost structure accuracy before
store opening.
Conduct opening inventory setup and verification.
Train new location teams on inventory processes and reporting
standards.


Ensure smooth financial integration of new locations into group
reporting.

Monitor post-opening cost stabilization during the first operational
months.

8. Process Standardization & Continuous Improvement
Standardize cost control processes across all operating companies.
Identify gaps in cost governance and implement corrective
measures.
Leverage technology and automation to enhance cost-tracking
workflows.
Continuously improve reporting clarity and operational alignment.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Financial KPIs
Gross margin variance maintained within approved threshold
(±2–3%).
Inventory shrinkage maintained below defined tolerance levels.
Budget variance within 3–5% of approved targets.
Operational KPIs
100% on-time monthly cost reporting.
Zero unexplained material inventory adjustments.
Successful cost setup for all new store openings.
Leadership KPIs
Junior Cost Controller reporting accuracy 98%.
Reduction in recurring cost errors.
Successful onboarding of cost function in new markets.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Supply Chain, or related
field.
5+ years of experience in cost control, preferably within F&B or
hospitality.
Prior experience supervising or mentoring team members.
Experience in multi-location or multi-entity environments preferred.
Competencies & Skills


Strong Financial & Analytical Thinking
Leadership & Coaching Ability
High Attention to Detail
Operational Understanding of F&B Cost Structures
Problem-Solving & Decision-Making
Strong Communication & Stakeholder Management
Process-Oriented & Structured
Technical Skills
Proficiency in ERP, inventory management, and accounting systems.
Advanced Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, variance modeling, data
analysis).
Understanding of cost control methodologies and procurement best
practices.
Experience with multi-entity financial environments preferred.