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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