Cost analyst

In business, a cost analyst is a professional responsible for analyzing a company's costs, or the use of available resources, and reports such analysis to management for decision-making and control. This role usually sits within the company's financial management area in general; sometimes, specifically, in "FP&A" (Financial planning and analysis). See financial manager, Profitability analysis, and budget analyst.

Cost analysts typically require a strong background in cost accounting methods, and often gain certification as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) by taking and passing a series of exams from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) or Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI), or the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants' CGMA. See Financial analyst § Qualification.