Cost Allocation Expert (Global Functions Finance)

Role Purpose

As a Cost Allocation Expert, you will be the global authority for cost allocation within COO/CTO Finance, owning the design, governance, validation, and continuous improvement of cost allocation models used across the ING Group.

This role is based in Manila and functionally reports to the CFO of CTO/COO. You will be collaborating with Group Finance Operations (COO Finance), Group Tax, Controllers, and cost governance forums—ensuring allocation models are accurate, compliant, well‑understood, and fit for enterprise‑wide financial steering.

This role is ideal for a senior finance professional who enjoys deep analytical work, complex modelling, and high‑level stakeholder interaction in a global setting.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Allocation Ownership & Modelling

• Lead the end‑to‑end global cost allocation framework for COO/CTO Finance.
• Design, enhance, and govern cost allocation models in line with finance policies, tax requirements, and business needs.
• Perform annual in‑depth model validation cycles (approx. 3 months) and quarterly model checks to ensure accuracy, consistency, and robustness.
• Ensure high‑quality data inputs, reconciliations, and integrity of model outputs, reports, and dashboards.
• Partner closely with Group Tax, global Controllers, and the Cost IC Squad to ensure correct application and interpretation of allocation methodologies.

Global Stakeholder Management & Advisory

• Act as the single point of contact for cost allocation topics across COO/CTO and interconnected finance teams globally.
• Translate complex model logic, charging rules, and outcomes into clear, structured, and business‑understandable insights.
• Manage stakeholder expectations and provide advisory support on allocation impacts, changes, and ad hoc queries.
• Support informed decision‑making by explaining financial implications clearly and confidently.

Process Excellence, Governance & Risk Control

• Maintain strong understanding of financial flows, systems, and data dependencies impacting allocation results.
• Identify and manage risks related to data quality, availability, model assumptions, and control gaps.
• Ensure full compliance with internal controls, finance governance standards, and audit requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including process simplification, standardization, and automation, leveraging tools such as Excel, Power BI, and Alteryx.

Planning Cycles & Delivery Management

• Lead and coordinate the annual cost allocation design and validation cycle, managing multiple global stakeholders and deadlines.
• Own quarterly updates, reviews, and model enhancements.
• Communicate progress, issues, and outcomes in a timely, concise, and structured manner.

What Makes You a Strong Fit

Core Competencies

• Cost Allocation Expertise – deep understanding of allocation drivers, methodologies, and governance.
• Strong Analytical Capability – able to analyze complex datasets, reconcile variances, and identify root causes.
• Executive Communication Skills – confident explaining technical finance topics to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Stakeholder Management – comfortable working with senior, international, and cross‑functional teams.
• Structured & Detail‑Oriented – ensures accuracy, compliance, and consistency in all outputs.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset – proactive in identifying efficiencies and better ways of working.

Knowledge & Technical Skills

• Solid foundation in Finance & Accounting and end‑to‑end financial flows.
• Proven hands‑on experience with Cost Allocation models and validation.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; strong working knowledge of Power BI and Alteryx.
• Strong data management, reconciliation, and dashboard quality control skills.
• Nice to have: FP&A exposure for forward‑looking analysis and controller support.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in Finance, Controlling, Cost Management, or FP&A.
• Experience working in global, matrixed, or multinational organizations.
• Background in Finance, IT, Shared Services, or complex corporate environments.
• Proven ability to operate at both strategic and hands‑on execution levels.