Operational Cost Controller at Lekki Freeport Terminal

Location: Ibeju Lekki, Lagos
 

Job Purpose

• To monitor, analyse, and control operational costs within the container terminal, ensuring cost efficiency, budget adherence, and optimal utilisation of resources without compromising safety, service quality, or operational performance.

Key Responsibilities
Cost Monitoring & Control:

• Track daily, weekly, and monthly operational costs across terminal activities (quay, yard, gate, equipment, and support services)
• Monitor utility costs against approved operational budgets
• Identify cost overruns, inefficiencies, and waste in terminal operations
• Implement cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service standards.

Budgeting & Forecasting:

• Support preparation of annual operational budgets and cost forecasts
• Provide variance analysis between actual costs and budgeted figures
• Recommend and report on the implementation of corrective actions (preventive maintenance / utility consumption / etc.)
• Assist in cost modelling for new projects, equipment, or process changes.

Operational Analysis & Reporting:

• Challenge the data provided by the Operational departments
• Analyse the cost per move (lift-on/lift-off), vessel call costs, yard productivity costs, and equipment utilisation.
• Prepare detailed cost control reports for management review
• Track unit costs for manpower, fuel, power, equipment maintenance, and consumables
• Support management with data-driven decision-making.

Process Improvement & Efficiency:

• Work closely with Operations, Engineering, and Planning teams to improve productivity and reduce operational waste
• Support the implementation of efficiency initiatives (lean operations and process optimisation).
• Monitor impact of operational changes on cost performance
• Promote cost-conscious culture across operational teams.

Compliance & Controls:

• Ensure adherence to approved procurement and cost authorization procedures
• Support internal and external audits related to operational expenditure
• Ensure cost records are accurate, complete, and compliant with company policies
• Enforce cost control guidelines across terminal operations.

Stakeholder Coordination:

• Liaise with Operations, Finance, Procurement, Engineering, and HR on cost-related matters
• Provide cost insights to terminal management and department heads
• Support vendor and contractor cost evaluations.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Utility cost (power & water consumption for operations & administrative buildings)
• Cost per container move
• Budget variance (%)
• Operational cost reduction achieved
• Accuracy and timeliness of cost reports
• Equipment and manpower cost efficiency
• Compliance with cost control procedures.

Qualifications & Experience

• HND / BSc in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or related discipline
• 3 – 6 years experience in cost control, operational finance, or terminal operations
• Experience in port, logistics, maritime, or heavy industrial environment preferred
• Professional certification (ICAN, ACCA, CIMA, PMP – added advantage).

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Good understanding of terminal operations and cost drivers
• Proficiency in Excel, ERP systems, and Terminal Operating Systems (TOS)
• Excellent reporting and presentation skills
• Attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability
• Ability to work under pressure in a 24/7 operational environment
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.