Oct 6, 2008

NAFTA Supply Chain Cost Accountant/Analyst - Ames, IA

Have you thought about how to feed the fast growing world population? We have. 

And we are looking for top talent to join our team!

Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology.  The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market.  Sales in 2007 were approximately $9.2 billion.  Syngenta employs over 21,000 people in more than 90 countries.  Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York (SYT). 

NAFTA Supply Chain Cost Accountant/Analyst – Ames, IA

Role Purpose – 

The Supply Chain Cost Accountant/Analyst will provide cost accounting expertise, financial and analytical support for the Supply Chain (SC) function within Syngenta Seeds, Inc. in reporting and analyzing inventory, cost of good produced (COGP) and cost of goods sold (COGS) activity for field crops. The SC Cost Accountant will: 1) develop cost analysis and financial performance results for SC management 2) support cost accounting team in providing financial and analytical support to improve business performance 3) understanding of SC and its value creation drivers 4) investigate and prepare reports on cost processes and projects as assigned 5) assist with Plans, budgets and Estimates (annual, 5-year plan, Les.

Accountabilities – 

Prepare SC performance management measures for Field Crops and track & report performance against targets. • Co-ordinate, monitor and report performance management indicators for management, i.e., annual targets, performance against targets, KPI's and other performance management indicators established by Brand Management and Regional leadership. • Liaise with Brand Controllers. • Prepare margin analysis by crop/brand /hybrid/variety. • Monthly and annual analysis of cost of production and cost of sales. • Respond to cost related inquires from operations and finance. • Accurate and timely standard cost setting, monitoring and analysis. • Manage physical inventory process. • Assist with preparation of monthly crop management reports and explain monthly cost variance to management team. • Assist in the development, implementation, preparation and analysis of key performance measures. • Prepare actual vs. budget variances analysis, reports and presentations. • Review and analyze monthly COGS results. Supply monthly COGS comments to SC Assistant Controller for management reporting. Anticipate and inform management of any deviations from budget or latest estimate. Review key balance sheet entries i.e. inventory levels and reserves etc. • Assist with budgeting and forecasting processes with a focus on all elements of SC spending and COGS. Liaise with operations to gather information needed for successful completion of financial plans. • Prepare inventory reserve reports for all seeds. • Project and process work for all field crops as assigned. i.e. plant training, special projects to support SC Cost Accounting Team, variance analysis etc. • Other activities as assigned.

Knowledge, experience & capabilities –

Critical Knowledge: 

Bachelor's degree with an Accounting major, with emphasis in management/cost accounting preferred. CPA, MBA, or CMA desired but not required. Understanding of International Accounting Standards (IAS) and General Accepted Accounting Standards (GAAP). Experience in standard costing within SAP or other large scale ERP system.

Critical Skills: 

Strong PC skills, especially Excel and database applications. Strong interpersonal and team work/building skills. Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills. Budgeting/Planning/Forecasting. Financial Analysis for income statement, balance sheet and cash flow analysis. Strong organizational skills.

Critical Experience:

Three to Five years of related experience, agribusiness experience desirable. Experience with cost allocations, variance analysis, cost reporting. Experience with the Seeds industry preferred. Experience planning and organizing multiple tasks.

Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.

Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at www.syngentacareers.com. EOE

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