Cost Accounting Manager

Cost Accounting Manager

Canonical is a leading provider of open-source software and operating systems, powering enterprise initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, and IoT. As a pioneer in global distributed collaboration, we have over 1200 colleagues in more than 75 countries, operating with a remote-first model. Our founder-led, profitable, and growing company is seeking a passionate Cost Accounting Manager to drive our cost recognition processes, decisions, systems, and reporting.

Our finance function aims to set the industry pace for speed and accuracy in reporting by aligning operational processes, cost structures, and financial systems for consistency, transparency, and efficiency.

About the Role

We are looking for a professionally qualified accounting leader with expertise in cost accounting and IFRS to build scalable cost review and cost recognition processes. This role will collaborate across departments including Information Systems, Legal, Business Services, Financial Planning & Analysis, and Commercial Business Systems to ensure accurate, consistent, and highly automated accounting treatment of costs, vendor management, and operational spend. A deep interest in the software and technology industry, and ideally some data analytics or software engineering experience, is highly valued. The Cost Accounting Manager will ensure the proper application of cost accounting guidance for public market scrutiny.

This is a management position requiring confidence in presentation, goal setting, and directing the work of others. You will lead and grow a team focused on cost accounting, with an emphasis on systems and automation, to achieve top-tier reporting clarity, correctness, transparency, and speed.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Procurement, Commercial Systems, Operations, Legal, and FP&A teams to design and maintain scalable cost management, allocation, and reporting processes.
• Drive process and configuration improvements in NetSuite and related systems for end-to-end automation of the cost lifecycle.
• Incorporate industry best practices, emerging technology, and AI to enhance reporting speed and accuracy.
• Review and evaluate the cost recognition impact of non-standard expenses.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of cost accounting and systems accounting professionals.
• Assist in month-end cost close, including reconciliations, fluctuation analysis, and other reporting.
• Develop and maintain effective internal controls over cost transactions and reporting.
• Research and write accounting memos on significant cost recognition and other related policy matters.
• Act as the primary liaison with external auditors on matters related to purchase-to-pay.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements while identifying and managing cost accounting risks.

Requirements

• An undergraduate degree in Accounting or Finance, or a compelling alternative career path.
• CPA, ACCA, or equivalent qualification with excellent technical accounting skills and IFRS experience.
• Detailed understanding of IFRS 16, IFRS 18, and relevant rules for SaaS and services.
• Proven leadership or management experience.
• A track record of exceeding expectations and managing cost accounting processes and operational expenses.
• Experience driving cost recognition and scaling accounting processes in a high-growth environment.
• Experience with ERP and operational finance systems, including procurement, expense management, and reporting platforms (NetSuite preferred).
• Experience in a multi-country, multi-currency operations and tax environment.
• Professional written and spoken English.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, curiosity, flexibility, and accountability.
• Thoughtfulness and self-motivation.
• Result-oriented with a personal drive to meet commitments.
• Ability to travel twice a year for company events (up to two weeks).

Additional Valued Skills

• Public company reporting and revenue accounting experience.
• Software implementation, integration, and user acceptance testing.
• Software engineering qualification or experience.
• A passion for technology.
• MBA or other relevant business degree.

What We Offer

Canonical offers a competitive compensation package, reviewed annually, that considers geographical location, experience, and performance. In addition to base pay, we provide a performance-driven annual bonus or commission. Our benefits reflect our values and are balanced to meet local needs while ensuring global fairness.

• Remote work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints in interesting global locations.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review and recognition rewards.
• Annual holiday leave, maternity, and paternity leave.
• Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
• Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues.
• Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long-haul company events.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a workplace free from discrimination. We value diversity of experience, perspectives, and background.