Cost Analyst (Maternity Cover)

About Us

Touchlight pioneers scalable, cell-free DNA technology, transforming gene therapy and genetic medicine. With a commitment to innovation, excellence, and a diverse team, we push boundaries to deliver safer, more efficient solutions for the future.

At Touchlight, we’ve reimagined DNA production to meet the evolving needs of innovators like you. Our patented synthetic DNA vector, dbDNA™, and cell-free enzymatic manufacturing platform deliver DNA with unmatched speed, scale, and purity, helping you move faster from discovery to clinic.

Whether you’re developing mRNA, viral vector, or vaccines, Touchlight helps you overcome the limits of plasmid manufacturing. No fermentation. No antibiotics. No cell banking. Just high-quality RUO or GMP DNA, ready when you need it. DNA is our DNA™

Role Overview

We are looking for a Cost Analyst to join Touchlight’s Finance department as a maternity leave cover. They will play a pivotal role in analysing, monitoring, and controlling the manufacturing costs to ensure optimal efficiency and profitability. Their primary responsibilities will include overseeing standard costing, factory variances, inventory management, and providing valuable insights to support strategic decision-making within the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse manufacturing costs, including direct labour, materials, factory variances and overhead expenses
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimise manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve profitability
• Perform month end activities related to direct costs
• Take ownership of Bill of Material costing
• Work closely with Supply Chain team to ensure correctness of SAP material pricing
• Analyse profitability by Project, Modality, Customer
• Take an active part in budgeting and reforecasting processes
• Work as the Co-pilot to the procurement team to improve the quantity and quality of savings year on year
• Enhance current inventory reporting
• Support the Senior Finance Business Partner as required.

Skills and Experience Required

• Professional certification including AAT, CIMA/ACCA (part qualified or newly qualified) or QBE
• Experience as a Cost Analyst or similar role within Finance is preferred
• Knowledge of standard costing, inventory management, and manufacturing processes is preferred
• Advanced Excel skills, including the ability to create complex spreadsheets and perform data analysis
• Proficiency in costing module of SAP is a a strong plus (experience working with S4 Hana version)
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Experience working within life- science manufacturing sector is desirable but not essential.

Touchlight Benefits

Touchlight is a successful scale-up business with a record of world-leading innovation and a welcoming, entrepreneurial culture. We make Touchlight an extraordinary place to work by providing our employees with incredible facilities, flexible working and a competitive benefits and remuneration package.

A Place for Everyone

We believe diversity drives innovation and for that reason we strongly encourage those from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Touchlight. We are an equal opportunity employer and aim to build a workforce that is truly representative of the communities in which we operate and our customers.

If you need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please speak with the HR team who will be happy to support you.