Cost Reporting Lead

As part of the transformation of the Finance function, the Cost Reporting Lead role has been created to develop and manage consolidated cost reporting, forecasting and planning for the Group.

The role leads the strategic financial planning, budgeting and forecasting processes, acting as the central point of contact for all cost reporting across the Cost team and wider FP&A function. By bringing strong commercial insight and an understanding of the external environment, the role identifies risks and opportunities, enabling better decision making and influencing stakeholders to maintain a sharp focus on cost.

The Cost Reporting Lead is responsible for producing high quality executive level reporting that clearly articulates key messages and drives action. Working closely with Lead Finance Business Partners, FP&A colleagues and senior stakeholders, the role ensures a deep understanding of business areas, cost drivers and key risks and opportunities, while supporting partnering teams through centralised reporting, structured planning cycles and clear ownership of actions. The role collaborates closely with the Head of Cost Management, directs a small team, and ensures strong governance, controls and version management across all planning and forecasting activities in line with regulatory and risk management frameworks.

The role also plays a key part in shaping the future of cost management by embedding new systems such as Workday and Adaptive, driving automation, standardisation and continuous improvement to deliver a single version of the truth. Acting as the recognised subject matter expert in financial planning and forecasting, the Cost Reporting Lead leads scenario analysis, modelling and strategic insight, develops planning assumptions, and incorporates internal and external market trends into forecasts and budgets. Through strong cross functional relationships with HR, Procurement and the wider business, the role champions efficiency, robust cost control and forward-looking insight that supports the organisation’s strategic priorities.

Location: We operate on a team-led hybrid approach with at least 2 days a week in the Coventry & / or Manchester office.

In 2025, Coventry Building Society purchased The Co-operative Bank. Bringing together our purpose-led building society with the UK’s original ethical bank was the start of an exciting journey.

Trusted by over four million people, we’re a mutually owned business free from shareholders, and with our combined experience of almost 300 years, our ethics and dedication will continue to guide us. Together, we have shared values and an ethical approach towards our members, customers and colleagues.

We’re officially recognised as a ‘Great Place to Work’ and our benefits go beyond basic pay, with a discretionary bonus scheme, a culture of reward and recognition and comprehensive support for wellbeing. 

We’re serious about equality, of race, age, faith, disability, and sexual orientation and we celebrate diversity. By working together, we know you’ll build more than just a career with us.

Flexibility and why it matters

We understand the need for flexibility, so wherever possible, we’ll consider alternative working patterns. Have a chat with us before you apply to see what the possibilities are for this role.                                                                                     

Proud to be a Disability Confident Committed Employer

We’re proud to offer an interview or assessment to every disabled applicant who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies. As part of the application process, disabled applicants can opt in for the Disability Confident Interview Scheme. If there are ever occasions where it is not practicable to interview all candidates that meet the essential criteria, such as when we receive a high number of applications, we commit to interviewing disabled candidates who best meet the minimum essential and desirable criteria.

Feedback

We are currently receiving a high number of applications for our roles and, while we review each one carefully against the advertised criteria, unfortunately we're unable to provide individual feedback. We will contact shortlisted candidates directly.