Senior Cost Controller

Our client is a fast-growing casual steakhouse brand focused ondelivering 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 institutionalizingthe cost control function across assigned entities and locations.This role ensures gross margin protection, inventory integrity, purchasingdiscipline, and financial accuracy across all operating units. The SeniorCost Controller supervises Junior Cost Controllers, standardizes processesacross 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 Oversight4. Budgeting & Forecast Support5. Internal Controls & Compliance6. Reporting & Performance Transparency7. New Location Onboarding & Expansion Support8. 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 FinanceManager 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 Financeleadership. Ensure consistent application of cost methodology across markets. Conduct regular performance reviews and provide structuredcoaching. Train team members on systems, inventory procedures, andreporting 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 withaccounting records. Monitor stock movement, wastage levels, and shrinkage. Review purchase orders to ensure alignment with budget andapproved suppliers. Maintain strong coordination with Operations and Supply Chainteams.4. Budgeting & Forecast Support Support preparation of cost budgets and forecasts by entity. Provide financial insight on cost implications of operationaldecisions. Assist in forecasting COGS and inventory requirements for upcomingprojects. 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 andassets. Ensure compliance with financial governance standards across allmarkets. 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, inventoryrecords, 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 beforestore opening. Conduct opening inventory setup and verification. Train new location teams on inventory processes and reportingstandards. 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-trackingworkflows. 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 relatedfield. 5+ years of experience in cost control, preferably within F&B orhospitality. 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 & StructuredTechnical Skills Proficiency in ERP, inventory management, and accounting systems. Advanced Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, variance modeling, dataanalysis). Understanding of cost control methodologies and procurement bestpractices. Experience with multi-entity financial environments preferred.

Originally posted on Himalayas