Manager, Cost Accounting & Operations Finance

We're building something from the ground up and we need a sharp, operationally fluent Manager, Cost Accounting & Operations Finance to build it with us. This is a newly created role, which means you won't be inheriting someone else's playbook. You'll be writing it.

At the intersection of accounting, operations, and supply chain, you'll design and implement the cost accounting and inventory systems that underpin our global manufacturing and distribution operations. You'll be the connective tissue between the finance team and the operations team, translating physical inventory movements into clean, auditable financials while helping operational partners understand the cost implications of the decisions they make every day.

This is a role for someone who is energized by complexity, allergic to black boxes, and deeply motivated by building processes that scale. If you've spent your career not just reporting on inventory but actually fixing the systems behind it and you're ready to do that in a high-growth, fast-moving environment this is your seat at the table.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Lead the monthly close process for inventory and COGS, including journal entries, reconciliations, and internal reporting
• Ensure accurate inventory costing and valuation, including landed cost, freight, duties, variances, and other COGS components
• Own the inventory subledger and ensure alignment with the general ledger
• Oversee purchase accrual processes and work with Procurement and AP to ensure accuracy and completeness
• Analyze inventory, open PO Commitments, demand forecasts and other financial and operational data, and provide recommendations to management.
• Identify and support continual process improvements for increased efficiency and timely reporting.
• Monitor and analyze inventory movements, including in-transit, consignment, write-offs, and returns, and ensure appropriate accounting treatment
• Drive process improvements related to inventory and COGS accounting, including documentation of policies and procedures and automation
• Partner with FP&A and Operations to provide timely and accurate analysis of COGS trends and inventory balances along with insights and reporting regarding inventory and margin drivers
• Support the annual financial audit, including the preparation of spreadsheets or reports that support the financial statement numbers (e.g., inventory balances, COGS breakdown, inventory adjustments) and responses related to inventory and COGS
• Support physical inventory and cycle count processes and ensure results are reflected properly and timely in financial statements

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field;
• 7+ years of progressive experience in accounting, preferably in a tech, manufacturing, or high-growth environment with at least 3 years of inventory experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP/IFRS, with expertise in inventory valuation and cost accounting.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills.
• Experience in accounting processes in a high-growth or start-up environment.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on attention to detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively across teams and functions.
• Fluency in English and German is a requirement. 
• EU Citizenship required.

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Stock Options
• Generous holiday allowance
• Pension plan 
• Extended social security package 
• Enhanced maternity & paternity leave
• Wellpass membership 

About Auterion

We are building the leading software platform for AI-powered autonomous systems for enterprise and government customers. Our team is supporting the most important missions and solving the most challenging problems.

At Auterion, we bring together the sharpest minds who love to solve the hardest problems. Join a vibrant team built on innovation, openness, and excellence, where you’ll be empowered to develop ideas, collaborate across all levels, and make an impact that matters.