The Associate Director of Cost accounting is responsible for establishing and leading the cost accounting framework for a complex, multi-stage cell and gene therapy product. This position will design and implement cost tracking processes across external manufacturing partners (CDMOs) and internal Technical Operations, ensuring accurate cost capture, variance analysis, and ERP system integration.
The ideal candidate would have good understanding of biologics manufacturing, cost accounting principles, and ERP system configuration (e.g., AX 2012 or equivalent). The position will report to the Controller.
Essential Functions:
1. Cost Accounting System Setup & Process Design
Design and implement the end-to-end cost accounting structure for cell therapy product manufacturing, from raw material purchasing through intermediate and final product manufacturing.
Establish processes for accurate cost collection, allocation, and capitalization across Intermediate and Finished Goods production.
Collaborate with the Technical Operations team to define cost flow mapping, WIP tracking, and batch-level cost attribution.
Partner with IT/ERP team to configure product costing, BOMs, routing, and absorption logic within the ERP system.
Develop documentation for cost accounting workflows, controls, and system configurations.
2. Standard Cost Development & Maintenance
Maintain standard cost models reflecting the full manufacturing lifecycle, including materials, labor, testing, CDMO suite/batch fees, and overhead absorption.
Review and refine standard costs periodically to reflect operational changes, yield assumptions, and pricing updates from vendors.
Maintain visibility of upstream and downstream manufacturing cost drivers.
Support the Controller and CFO in determining inventory valuation, capitalization of WIP, and COGS recognition policies.
Lead balance sheet reconciliation and inventory transaction process
3. Actual Cost Reconciliation & Variance Analysis
Develop processes to reconcile standard vs. actual production costs for each various stages of the manufacturing process.
Identify key variances related to yield, scrap, or CDMO performance; communicate insights to operations and finance leadership.
Analyze and report the financial impact of batch failures, production delays, or material write-offs.
Collaborate with accounting during monthly close to ensure accurate accruals for manufacturing-related costs.
4. Financial Reporting & Controls
Support monthly close, inventory valuation, and manufacturing P&L analysis.
Partner with FP&A and Technical Operations to improve cost forecasting.
Ensure compliance with internal controls, capitalization policies, and accounting standards (IFRS).
Provide leadership in audit preparation for cost accounting and inventory valuation processes.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with Technical Operations and Supply Chain to ensure cost accuracy and transparency.
Lead the training and development of cost accounting practices across the finance and operations teams.
Competencies:
Understanding of accounting processes, procedure and internal controls.
Extensive skills in Microsoft Excel;
Effective Communication Skills (Written & Verbal)
Ability to succeed in a team environment.
Strong research and analysis skills.
Ability to adapt quickly and learn new tasks independently.
Ability to manage competing priorities.
Required Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree, in Business, Finance or Accounting;
CPA is preferred
7–10 years of progressive cost accounting experience in pharmaceuticals, biologics, or complex manufacturing
Strong technical understanding of ERP systems (preferably MS Dynamics, SAP, or Oracle) and cost flow setup.
Proven experience building or managing cost accounting for long-cycle, multi-step manufacturing processes.
In-depth knowledge of standard costing, variance analysis, and manufacturing overhead allocation.
Ability to interpret complex production data, yields, and batch-level costs.
Excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills.
Work Environment / physical demands / position type and expected hours of work:
This position based in Secaucus, NJ, and offers a hybrid work arrangement with two remote days each week.
This job operates in a clerical, office setting. This role routinely uses standard office equipment this is a largely sedentary role; however, it requires the ability to lift marketing materials, open product cabinets and bend or stand on a stool as necessary.
The normal working hours of the office are from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Reporting Structure:
Reports to Controller
Works in tandem with another cost accountant
Travel: <10%
Compensation and Benefits:
Salary Range: $140,000 – $180,000
This range represents the base annual full-time salary for all positions within the applicable job grade. The actual salary offer will depend on a range of factors including experience, education, location, and other relevant qualifications. This position is also eligible for a Pierre Fabre bonus, commission, or incentive program in addition to the base pay.
Employees will be eligible to participate in a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, voluntary benefits, a 401(k) retirement plan, a generous PTO policy, paid company holidays, and paid parental leave. Additional offerings include employee discounts on our products, professional development opportunities, and access to mental health and wellness programs.
Pierre Fabre
Pierre Fabre is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant because of race, creed, color, age, national origin, ancestry, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, application for military service or any other class protected by state or federal law.
We are convinced that diversity is a source of fulfillment, social balance and complementarity for our employees, which is why our offers are open to all, without restriction.