The Cost Management Manager will play a crucial role in delivering hands-on, high-impact cost management solutions for clients. The individual will take ownership of workstreams, focusing on cost visibility, optimization initiatives, and developing analytical tools and roadmaps aligned with client strategies. This role requires a proactive, organized professional with strong analytical and technical skills who thrives in an execution-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery:

• Independently lead small workstreams or modules within larger cost management projects.
• Apply cost management techniques, including Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB), Unit Economics, Activity-Based Costing (ABC), and Cost-Per-Unit (CPU) analysis.
• Enhance clients' visibility into cost structures, identify cost levers, and create actionable optimization plans.
• Ensure timely and high-quality delivery of project milestones and client deliverables.

Research & Analysis:

• Conduct detailed data analysis to uncover cost-saving opportunities and evaluate value creation potential.
• Develop financial models, budgets, and tools to support monitoring and controlling costs.
• Synthesize complex data into actionable insights and clear, concise recommendations.

Client Interaction & Presentation:

• Participate in client meetings, workshops, and interviews to gather information, identify challenges, and propose solutions.
• Prepare and deliver visually impactful presentations and reports tailored to client needs.
• Serve as a trusted advisor, proactively addressing client concerns and identifying opportunities for value creation.

Practice & Business Development Support:

• Support the development of client proposals, presentations, and relationships.
• Stay informed on industry trends and innovations to enhance the quality and relevance of deliverables.
• Contribute to internal knowledge-sharing by refining and documenting best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• Professional qualification such as CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants), ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) (mandatory).
• Additional certifications such as Lean Six Sigma or similar are a plus.

Experience

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in cost management or consulting roles.
• Demonstrated proficiency in cost optimization methodologies, financial modelling, and budget development.
• Expertise in tools such as Excel and PowerPoint (required); familiarity with Power BI, Alteryx, or similar tools (preferred).
• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision and deliver high-quality results.

Skills & Competencies

• Analytical Excellence: Strong ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and create actionable recommendations.
• Consulting Toolkit: Proficiency in developing budgets, cost models, and presentations that communicate insights clearly.
• Proactivity and Independence: Self-starter with excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including creating impactful client deliverables.
• Client-Focused: Adept at building trust and delivering tailored solutions that address client needs.
• Technical Acumen: Ability to leverage analytical tools and platforms to enhance cost visibility and insights.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Successful delivery of project workstreams with minimal oversight.
• High client satisfaction and trust in independent execution.
• Effective collaboration within teams and adherence to Contango’s core values (Respect, Collaboration, Impact, Excellence, Integrity).