Cost Auditor

• Proven experience in a Finance or Commercial role, ideally with exposure to cost control, audit or review activity.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment with multiple deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail with ability to interpret financial data and identify exceptions.
• Personable and confident, able to build relationships and challenge appropriately.
• Able to work well independently and as part of a team.
• Degree in a finance-related subject (or equivalent).
• Strong MS Excel / MS Office skills.

• Experience in project-based, operational or site-based environments.
• Knowledge of ERP / finance systems and data interrogation (e.g., Power BI or similar)
• Studying towards a professional finance qualification (e.g., ACCA/CIMA/ACA).Will consider candidates with a Commercial background

CMDP+ is looking to strengthen their Finance team with a Cost Auditor for our Southern Water Framework. MWH Treatment and Costain Group are part of the CMDP+ joint venture that will deliver a range of construction schemes to maintain and improve Southern Water's water supply and wastewater treatment works within the South and Southeast regions.

• Standardise and maintain the JV cost audit procedure, including templates, test plans, evidence requirements and reporting outputs.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all cost audits conducted on the JV, coordinating requests, timelines, site access and information flows.
• Work closely with client auditors and external partner auditors, ensuring a consistent approach, timely responses and high-quality evidence packs.
• Conduct cost audits on project expenditure, ensuring costs are valid, correctly coded, appropriately authorised and supported by evidence.
• Review and test controls around purchasing, timesheets, expenses, subcontractor payments and stock/materials usage (where applicable).
• Identify cost leakage, non-compliance, process weaknesses and emerging risks; escalate appropriately and support corrective actions.
• Perform variance analysis and trend reviews to highlight unusual movements and opportunities for improved cost control.
• Support month-end activities by validating cost accruals/prepayments and ensuring costs are captured in the correct period where required.
• Work closely with Finance and Commercial teams to maintain robust governance and ensure adherence to internal policies and contractual requirements.
• Partner with Finance and Commercial teams to design, implement and embed robust audit-proof processes, including clear ownership, controls, and document retention standards.
• Prepare clear audit summaries, findings and recommendations, including actions, owners and timescales; track progress to closure.
• Maintain accurate working papers and documentation to evidence audit work and outcomes.
• Ensure your own continuous professional development and keep up to date with best practice in audit, governance and cost control.
• Maintain a positive and solution-oriented approach, providing open and honest feedback and building effective working relationships.
• Work confidently on your own initiative, whilst contributing effectively as part of the wider team.
• In all internal and external contact, present a professional and positive image of the department and business, maintaining constructive relationships.