Food & Beverage (F&B) Cost Controller

Position Overview

The F&B Cost Controller is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and controlling all food and beverage costs across the property or operation. The role ensures accurate inventory control, cost efficiency, compliance with budgets, and adherence to UAE/GCC food safety and accounting standards. This position collaborates closely with F&B, Purchasing, and Finance teams to optimize profitability while maintaining quality standards.

Department: Food & Beverage / Finance / Operations

Reports To: Finance Manager / F&B Manager / Director of Finance

Key Responsibilities

Cost Control & Analysis

Monitor food and beverage costs, including inventory, purchases, and usage.
Calculate food and beverage cost percentages and compare with budgeted targets.
Analyze wastage, over-portioning, spillage, and theft and implement corrective measures.
Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly cost reports for management review.
Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

Inventory Management

Oversee stock counts for food, beverage, and operating supplies.
Implement and maintain FIFO/FEFO inventory systems to minimize wastage.
Reconcile physical inventory with system records, investigate discrepancies.
Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation of goods in line with HACCP and municipality regulations.
Coordinate with Storekeepers, Purchasing, and Kitchen/Bar teams for accurate stock management.

Procurement & Purchase Support

Review and verify purchase invoices for accuracy, pricing, and quantities.
Monitor adherence to purchasing procedures and approved suppliers.
Assist F&B management in menu costing, pricing strategies, and new menu evaluations.
Recommend procurement adjustments to optimize cost efficiency.

Compliance & Standard Operating Procedures

Ensure adherence to local health, safety, and hygiene regulations (UAE/GCC).
Maintain proper documentation for audits, including inventory, purchase, and cost records.
Ensure compliance with internal SOPs and F&B operational policies.
Support internal and external audits related to inventory and cost control.

Reporting & Communication

Prepare detailed F&B cost reports for the General Manager, the F&B Manager, and the Finance.
Present variance analyses and provide recommendations for cost optimization.
Liaise with department heads to implement cost control strategies.
Provide training and guidance to F&B, kitchen, and bar staff on portion control, waste reduction, and inventory procedures.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Hospitality Management, or related field.
Certifications in cost control, inventory management, or hospitality accounting are preferred.

Experience

3–5 years of experience in F&B cost control in hotels, resorts, or large catering operations.
Prior experience with budgeting, inventory reconciliation, and F&B reporting in the UAE/GCC is highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

Strong knowledge of food and beverage cost control, procurement, inventory, and finance processes.
Experience with hospitality software systems, POS, and ERP systems (e.g., Micros, Oracle, M3).
Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of HACCP, UAE municipality regulations, and labour law requirements.

Language

Fluent in English (mandatory); proficiency in Arabic or other languages is advantageous.

Personal Attributes

Detail-oriented, organised, and ethical.
Ability to train and influence department staff to adhere to cost control standards.
Flexible to work across multiple F&B outlets and shifts if required.

Work Conditions

Office and F&B outlet exposure; may require shift coverage, including weekends or events.
Travel within the property or to outlets for inventory audits and inspections.

Typical UAE/GCC Benefits