About this role
The Finance & Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting activities across 18 European countries, ensuring compliance with local GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles), tax regulations, and group standards. The role is critical in driving financial transparency, ensuring accurate reporting, and guaranteeing timely payroll execution across all entities. The position acts as a key interface between the European operations and headquarters in Japan, ensuring alignment with global financial policies and reporting requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
Lead the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with local GAAP and group reporting requirementsEnsure timely and accurate submission of financial reports to HQ in JapanManage budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis processesProvide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-makingSubmitting monthly country-level financial reports (P/L) in a timely manner Accounting & Compliance
Oversee general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, fixed assets, and payroll accounting Ensure compliance with local tax, legal, and regulatory requirementsCoordinate external audits and act as the main point of contact for auditors and tax advisorsMaintain and improve internal controls and financial processes Payroll Management (Multi-country)
Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing and salary payments across all 18 countriesOversee coordination with local payroll providers and ensure compliance with country-specific labor and tax regulationsManage payroll-related reporting, controls, and auditsIdentify and mitigate payroll risks in a multi-country environment Team Leadership
Lead, develop, and mentor a team of 5 finance professionalsSet clear objectives, monitor performance, and support professional developmentFoster a collaborative and high-performance team environment Business Partnering
Act as a trusted advisor to the leadership teamSupport operational departments with financial analysis and cost managementDrive financial transparency across the organization HQ Coordination (Tokyo, Japan)
Serve as the key liaison with HQ finance teams in JapanAlign local financial practices with global policies and standardsSupport cross-border projects, reporting requirements, and process harmonizationManage communication across time zones and cultural contexts Success Measures
Timely and accurate financial reportingCompliance with all regulatory and group requirementsReliable and punctual payroll execution in all countriesEffective collaboration with HQ and local leadershipDevelopment and retention of a high-performing finance teamContinuous improvement of financial processesRequirements
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (CPA, ACCA, or equivalent preferred)Minimum of 10 years of experience in finance/accounting, including leadership responsibilityStrong knowledge of local GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and tax regulations; HGB and IFRS knowledge is a plusExperience managing finance operations across multiple European countriesSolid understanding of payroll processes in an international environmentExperience working in an international environment, ideally with HQ structuresProven track record in financial reporting, budgeting, and team leadership Skills & Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skillsHigh level of accuracy and attention to detailExcellent communication skills, with the ability to interact across culturesFluency in English required; German/Japanese is a plusProficiency in ERP systems (SAP) and advanced level of MS ExcelAbility to work independently and manage multiple priorities