Cost Accountant

Westland Milk Products is a well-known New Zealand end-to-end dairy manufacturer based in the beautiful South Island with offices and production facilities based in both Christchurch and Hokitika.

Owned by the Global Top 5 dairy company Yili Group, Westland Milk Products and its related companies in New Zealand, Oceania Dairy (Glenavy), Pure Nutrition Ltd (Rolleston), Canary Foods (Hamilton) and EasiYo Ltd (Auckland) form a group that we refer to as the Yili Oceania Business Division (YOBD). The combined business produces over 170,000mt of finished goods which are then exported to over 40 countries, driving annual revenue in excess of $1.3B - and growing.

About the Role:

Are you an analytical and detail-driven accounting professional looking to make an impact in a fast-paced organisation? We are currently seeking a Cost Accountant to join our finance team at our Hokitika site to help drive business performance through accurate cost analysis and reporting.

Reporting to the Finance Manager, you will be responsible for tracking, analysing, and reporting on all aspects of product costing, inventory valuation, and operational efficiency for our Hokitika factory. You'll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including operations, procurement, and supply chain to ensure accurate cost accounting and provide valuable financial insights that support decision-making.

Responsibilities include:

Develop and maintain standard cost models for products and processes
Analyse manufacturing variances and identify cost-saving opportunities
Monitor inventory transactions and perform reconciliations
Support budgeting and forecasting processes related to production and inventory
Partner with operational teams to understand cost drivers and support performance improvement
Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and internal controls
Prepare regular reports for management on cost performance and inventory valuation
Skills and Experience:

A relevant tertiary qualification in Accounting or Finance is preferred
Proven experience in a cost accounting or management accounting role (preferably in manufacturing, FMCG, or similar industries)
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Excel
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
A proactive mindset with the ability to challenge the status quo and drive continuous improvement
What We Offer:

Competitive base salary
Company incentive scheme
Health insurance
Life insurance
Free parking
Career development
Employee assistance & wellbeing programs
Enhanced parental leave provisions
+ Delicious discounted grass-fed butter!!!
How to Apply:

Please submit your application through our careers page at westlandcareers.co.nz. For further details, please refer to the accompanying position description available on the site.

Applications close on Sunday, 27 July 2025. Please note that this advertisement may close earlier than the listed closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may be conducted earlier than the closing date.

Applicants must have valid working rights in New Zealand to be considered.


Job Details
Reference #
31532

Posted on
26 Jun 2025

Closes on
27 Jul 2025 23:5+

Location(s)
Hokitika

Expertise
Finance

Job level(s)
Experienced

Work type(s)
Permanent
 
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New Zealand
West Coast
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