Title:

Position: Senior Cost Controls Specialist 

Company: KBR
Project: Majnoon-Iraq
Job Location: Abu Dhabi

Job Purpose

A Senior Cost Controls Specialist is responsible for managing and overseeing cost control processes across projects or organizational operations. This role ensures that budgets are effectively monitored, costs are accurately tracked, and financial risks are proactively identified and minimized.

The specialist performs detailed cost analysis, develops and monitors budget forecasts, and provides actionable insights to support informed decision-making. By maintaining financial discipline and optimizing resource utilization, they play a key role in enhancing project efficiency and contributing to overall financial success.

Key Responsibilities – Cost Controls

• Project Cost Management: Full ownership of project financial performance, including preparation and management of Project Status Reports (e-PSR) and overall P&L accountability.
• Variance Analysis: Perform detailed analysis of job ledgers and cost centers to identify variances and recommend corrective actions.
• Accounts Payable (AP): Oversee end-to-end vendor payment processes, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely disbursement.
• Accounts Receivable (AR): Manage invoicing, AR aging, Withholding Tax (WHT), and Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) to optimize cash flow.
• Expense Management: Review and approve employee expense claims, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
• WBS Management: Lead the creation, maintenance, and continuous monitoring of Work Breakdown Structures to ensure accurate allocation.
• Project Accounting Liaison: Act as the primary interface between project management teams and finance/accounting departments.
• Standard Costing: Develop and apply cost multipliers for employee cost recovery and resource pricing.
• Client Reporting: Prepare and deliver client reports including VOWD (Value of Work Done) and monthly cost reports.
• Corporate Reporting: Support internal financial reporting cycles, ensuring alignment with corporate standards and compliance requirements.
• Cost Control & Forecasting: Establish and maintain robust cost control procedures, including tracking of actual costs and preparation of Estimates at Completion (EAC).
• Timesheet Management: Oversee timesheet processes across UAE and Iraq operations, including role administration and approval workflows.
• Audit Coordination: Serve as focal point for internal finance and SOX audits; provide support during client audits.
• Contract Compliance: Monitor and track the validity and compliance of contractual documents including Work Orders, Agency Contracts, and ICAs.

COMPLIANCE/FINANCE/OPERATION SUPPORT ROLE

• Corporate Card Oversight: Manage and monitor Project Corporate Management Cards (CMC) and P-Cards across UAE and Iraq operations, ensuring compliance, proper utilization, and audit readiness.
• Site Financial Governance: Oversee site-based finance processes including petty cash, business advances, and per diem administration, ensuring adherence to company policies and controls.
• Work Permit Administration: Lead and supervise the end-to-end work permit process, including new applications and cancellations for demobilized personnel.
• Social Security Compliance: Manage project registration and compliance with DRSS (social security authority) for workforce coverage.
• Tax Reporting: Prepare and submit weekly reports on Iraq portfolio Withholding Tax (WHT) status, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Performance Monitoring: Develop, review, and report quarterly KPIs aligned with contractual requirements and project objectives.
• Procedure Development: Implement project-specific cost and finance procedures, including travel and business advance policies.
• Audit & Assurance: Lead departmental audits in Iraq for the Business Services (Project Finance) function, ensuring full compliance and audit preparedness.
• Client Coordination: Provide timely responses to ad hoc client requests, maintaining strong client relationships and service delivery standards.

Soft Skills

• Communication: Effectively convey complex financial and cost data to stakeholders
• Leadership: Demonstrate strong leadership by guiding teams, driving accountability, and influencing key decisions.
• Analytical Thinking: Interpret data and trends to identify cost-saving opportunities and support strategic planning.
• Problem-Solving: Proactively address cost overruns and project challenges with practical and innovative solutions.
• Time Management: Prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently in fast-paced, deadline-driven project environments.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve project and organizational objectives.
• Attention to Detail: Maintain high accuracy in cost tracking, financial reporting, and documentation.
• Conflict Resolution: Handle disagreements professionally, fostering constructive outcomes and maintaining team cohesion
• Years of Experience: 10+.