Junior Cost Analyst for APAC Region

About the RoleWe are looking for a motivated Junior Cost Analyst to join our Finance & Controlling team. In this role, you will support the development of a strong cost controlling function by analyzing cost structures, monitoring cost performance, and providing insights to improve operational efficiency.Working closely with Finance, Operations, Production, Purchasing, and other business functions, you will help identify cost drivers, analyze deviations versus budget and forecast, and support management in making informed business decisions.This position is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional with around two years of experience who wants to develop expertise in cost controlling, financial analysis, and business partnering. Your ResponsibilitiesCost Controlling & Cost AnalysisSupport the development and continuous improvement of cost controlling processes. Analyze cost structures and identify key cost drivers across different business areas. Monitor operational costs, including production costs, personnel costs, overheads, and external services. Prepare cost analyses to support efficiency improvements and cost optimization initiatives. Perform detailed analyses of cost developments and identify improvement opportunities. Support the implementation of cost reduction measures and track their financial impact. Budgeting & ForecastingSupport the preparation of annual budgets and periodic forecasts in close cooperation with operational departments. Collect, validate, and consolidate cost planning data. Analyze deviations between actual costs, budget, and forecast. Prepare variance analyses with explanations of key drivers and recommended actions. Support scenario analyses to evaluate the financial impact of operational decisions. Management Reporting & KPI AnalysisPrepare regular cost reports and management analyses. Develop and monitor cost-related KPIs to improve business performance visibility. Analyze trends and performance indicators to identify risks and opportunities. Support the preparation of management presentations and decision-making materials. Contribute to improving reporting accuracy and transparency. Operational ControllingWork closely with Production, Purchasing, and Operations to understand cost developments. Analyze production efficiency, capacity utilization, and cost performance. Support evaluations of process improvements and operational projects. Perform profitability and business case analyses for investments and improvement initiatives. Process Improvement & SystemsSupport the optimization and automation of controlling processes and reporting tools. Improve data quality and consistency within reporting systems. Use ERP systems and analytical tools to extract, analyze, and present financial information. Contribute to the continuous improvement of the controlling landscape. Your ProfileBachelor's degree in Finance, Controlling, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. Approximately 2 years of professional experience in Controlling, Cost Analysis, Financial Analysis, or a similar finance role. Strong analytical skills and a good understanding of financial and operational performance indicators. Basic knowledge of cost accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis. Ability to analyze complex data and translate findings into clear business insights. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; experience with Power BI or similar reporting tools is an advantage. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar) is desirable. Structured, detail-oriented, and proactive working style. Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with different departments. Team-oriented mindset with a strong interest in understanding business operations. Very good command of English.