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IntermediatePROBLEM_SOLVING
Give a specific example from CyD Ltda for BHP where you coordinated with operations and procurement to implement cost-saving measures; what accounting controls did you change and how did you quantify the savings?
Project Accountant
General

Sample Answer

On the BHP project at CyD Ltda we were seeing runaway MRO spend and month-end accruals of roughly $400k with no tight PO control. I led a working group of four (procurement, site ops, two accountants) to standardize POs, enforce three-way matching and raise the PO threshold for non-critical buys to $1,500. We implemented a monthly budget variance report and a delegated approval matrix. Accounting controls changed: mandatory PO before goods receipt, automated three-way match exceptions routed to procurement, and tightened cutoff for accruals. In the first quarter savings were tangible: we reduced direct materials spend 8% (~$450k annualized) and trimmed accrue-to-pay timing errors, lowering month-end accruals by $300k and cutting invoice processing time 35%.

Keywords

Cross-functional working group and leadershipSpecific control changes: mandatory POs, three-way match, approval matrixQuantified savings: 8% reduction (~$450k annualized), $300k fewer accrualsOperational benefits: 35% faster invoice processing
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