Cost Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established as a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, and millets. The organization operates primarily in the Global South, fostering partnerships that enhance the livelihoods and resilience of resource-poor farmers. CIMMYT is committed to creating a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system while working within planetary boundaries. The organization is dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improving natural resources through applied agricultural science. It employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Cost Specialist position at CIMMYT is a proactive role that requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a strong customer service orientation. The specialist will work within the Business Services Department and will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing pricing models for various hospitality services, including housing rent, hotel rooms, and restaurant operations. The role involves conducting market research and competitor analysis to ensure that pricing is competitive yet profitable. The Cost Specialist will analyze and recommend cost-based pricing models for fleet services and procurement cost allocations, adjusting pricing structures based on seasonality, market trends, and operational costs. This position is crucial for maintaining financial health and operational efficiency within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Cost Specialist will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including: developing and managing pricing models for hospitality services; conducting market research and competitor analysis; analyzing cost structures for hospitality services, fleet management, and procurement processes; maintaining financial models to project costs, revenue, and profit margins; tracking revenue streams and operating expenses; preparing financial performance reports; collaborating with unit leads to develop annual budgets; providing variance analysis; developing key performance indicators (KPIs); supporting strategic decision-making through scenario analysis; evaluating cost recovery models; participating in strategic planning sessions; optimizing financial reporting systems; identifying process improvements; ensuring adherence to financial policies; and collaborating with auditors for compliance reviews.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field. A Master’s degree or professional certification such as CFA or CPA is preferred. The role requires 3-5+ years of experience in financial analysis, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience in hospitality, procurement, or fleet management operations. Candidates should demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, a proactive approach to identifying financial risks, and the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential, along with proficiency in budget management and financial analysis.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certification (e.g., CFA, CPA) is highly preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field of finance and accounting.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have 3-5+ years of relevant experience in financial analysis. Candidates with exposure to hospitality, procurement, or fleet management operations will be given strong preference. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the candidate can effectively manage financial operations and contribute to strategic decision-making within the organization.

Languages:
A strong command of the English language is mandatory, with an advanced level (C1) required for effective communication and reporting. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly stated as a requirement for this position.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes benefits beyond the provisions of Mexican Labor Law. This includes a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits as per Mexican regulations (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). The position is based at CIMMYT headquarters in Texcoco, near Mexico City, which is approximately 45 minutes from the capital.