Headquartered in Akron, OH, Flexsys is a chemical manufacturing company with operations in the US, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. We produce tire additives that enhance the strength and durability of tires for leading manufacturers around the world.
We are a global supplier of rubber chemicals and solutions, including insoluble sulfur, anti-degradants, and stabilizers. Our singular focus is on delivering better solutions for manufacturers of tires and other rubber products that enhance product performance, optimize production efficiency, and ensure supply chain success. As the largest manufacturer of tire-industry additives in the world, and a newly independent entity, Flexsys brings a track record of innovation, quality, specialized expertise, a highly collaborative approach, and a commitment to growth – working together with our customers as a valuable partner, helping to meet their critical objectives.
General Description:
Flexsys is seeking an Akron-based Cost Accountant with extensive SAP experience in a manufacturing environment. The cost accountant will report to the Global Operations Controller (also based in Akron, OH) and support the product costing, manufacturing analysis, and inventory valuation activities. The candidate will primarily work alongside and support the global site controllers.
The candidate should be well versed in cost accounting – most notably with SAP product set-up and maintenance (cost rolls, etc.) as well as cost allocation methodology. They will also be involved in other month-end close processes (inventory valuation / reconciliations) and also support external and internal audits. They should possess an understanding of general accounting principles (GAAP) and how it applies to the Company.
Responsibilities:
- Responsible for overall execution of the standard cost update process. Work with various functional (procurement, site manufacturing teams, etc.) to coordinate and execute on all updates (including materials, utilities, and budgeted overhead rates, etc). Provide analysis/explanations of primary changes to broader organization.
- Work alongside the Head of Global Supply to set up new raw materials, packaging, WIP, and Finished goods items. Collect cost information and maintain expenses database.
- Prepare analysis of actual manufacturing costs (PUP) and report variances from standard costs.
- Serve as the primary liaison and work with global site controllers, IT, and Financial Systems and Process Owner Director to identify and execute on solutions to technical issues that arise.
- Perform monthly financial close activities including account reconciliations, product costing, and inventory valuation journal entries.
- Identify and recommend new procedures / methodology within the costing processes with the primary focus of enhancing transparency and accuracy.
- Conduct independent research to identify and recommend cost-effective solutions.
- Other ad-hoc analysis or projects as needed.
Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes for Success:
- Experience in SAP product costing – ideally with S/4 Hana in an actual costing environment (material ledger) across numerous company codes & foreign entities.
- Strong understanding of GAAP.
- Experience working in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent time management and problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills to anticipate and proactively recommend solutions.
- Integrity, with an ability to handle confidential information.
- Excellent communication skills: the ability to negotiate and influence decision-making and communicate effectively with senior management on progress, issues, and resolutions.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment with all levels of staff and management – including foreign locations.
Required Experience, Qualifications, & Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance (preferred) or commensurate experience.
- Extensive experience (5+ years) with SAP product costing environment (Preferably S/4 Hana and Actual Costing).
- Advanced data analytics (Pivot tables, VLookup, Linking multiple files).
- Experience with connecting data sources (SAP), import & transform data, and create visual dashboards and PowerBI a plus.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and effective oral and written communications skills.
- Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with a keen attention to detail.
- Ability to think “out of the box” and encourage constructive change.
- CPA – Preferred but not required.
