Accounting Manager

The Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing all functions within the accounting department, including financial accounting, cost accounting, treasury, and tax accounting. This role ensures the accuracy and efficiency of the company's financial operations, directly reporting to the CFO. The position involves managing accounting staff, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting, overseeing cash management, and handling various administrative and employee-related tasks within the department.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Oversee and manage all accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, general ledger entries, bank reconciliations, fixed asset management, cash applications, cost analysis, and financial analysis.
2. Ensure timely and accurate financial processing, month-end closing, balance sheet reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
3. Manage cash flow, including international and domestic wire transfers, ACH payments, and maintaining lines of credit.
4. Maintain professional relationships with banks and financial institutions.
5. Coordinate the development and preparation of budgets, forecasts, and financial projections.
6. Oversee the preparation of state sales and use tax filings on a quarterly, semi-annual, or annual basis.
7. Review and manage foreign currency exchange rates for financial closings.
8. Direct the preparation of financial statements, bank reports, and detailed analysis reports on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis.
9. Ensure compliance with company record retention requirements.
10. Collaborate with the HR department on the hiring and termination of accounting employees.
11. Supervise and review sub-ledgers related to cash, receivables, payables, inventory, fixed assets, and cost analysis.
12. Oversee the maintenance of ledger accounts, reconciliations, and documentation for monthly and fiscal year-end closings.
13. Address tax issues and coordinate with the tax department for audits.
14. Approve financial transactions and ensure proper handling according to company policies.
15. Ensure compliance with US GAAP, IFRS, and company procedures.
16. Review, document, and implement accounting systems and control procedures.
17. Recommend and report critical financial activities to the CFO, such as asset impairment, tax issues, and organizational restructuring.
18. Conduct studies and provide recommendations for improving accounting operations.
19. Prepare and manage data collection for federal, state, and local reports and tax returns.
20. Update and refine existing accounting policies and procedures.
21. Collaborate with the CFO and other management for long-term strategic profit planning.
22. Act as a liaison between the company and the parent company on accounting matters.
23. Conduct and manage financial statement audits and special projects as assigned by the CFO.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• Manage a team within the accounting department.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field is required.

Experience:

• Significant experience in accounting, with a combination of education and practical experience.
• A minimum of 5 years of managerial experience in accounting or finance is required.
• Experience managing a team of 5 or more staff is preferred.
• Experience in the automotive industry and JSOX management is a plus.
• Advanced skills in spreadsheet software (MS Excel) and large data handling are required.
• Intermediate or advanced skills in databases (MS Access) and word processing (MS Word) are a plus.

Licenses/Certifications:

• CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) certification is required.

Skills & Abilities:

• Proficiency in managing complex accounting functions and systems.
• Strong understanding of US GAAP and IFRS.
• Ability to read and interpret financial documents, IRS codes, safety rules, and procedures.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present information effectively.
• Bilingual skills in English and Japanese are a plus.

Other Requirements:

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with large data sets and advanced Excel functionalities.
• Familiarity with accounting software and ERP systems.

Language Skills:

• Proficiency in English is required; bilingual ability in Japanese is a plus.

Additional Information:

• This position requires collaboration across departments and may involve occasional travel.