Senior Financial Specialist in London

Our client is looking for a Senior Financial Specialist with Retail industry experience. Full time position Location: London Salary: around GBP 75K (flexible depending on skills and experience).

Accounting and Reporting

• Development of Accounting Policies: Formulate and update accounting policies in alignment with regulatory requirements and best practices. Ensure that all accounting policies are communicated effectively across the organization and adhered to by all relevant departments.
• Create detailed process maps and documentation to enhance transparency and efficiency within the accounting function.
• Efficient Utilization of Accounting Systems and Reporting Tools: Leverage advanced accounting software and reporting tools to improve data accuracy and reporting efficiency. Manage day-to-day accounting operations, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end closing.
• Prepare and review the reconciliation on the financial accounts (balance and P&L) for the month-end closing, to have a smooth month, quarter and year-end closing process.
• Controls timely reporting, accuracy and completeness (data assurance and validation). Pro-actively supports in seeking for process improvements within the financial control environment by streamlining the accounting functions and operations.
• Addressing Special Issues such as Impairment, Leases and Provisions: Compile the yearly statutory annual account and support this process within the given timelines. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulations.
• Actively communicate with OHQ finance team for finance related work. Support both local/OHQ business team with both daily/adhoc requests to meet their needs for finance related work.

Tax (Direct/Indirect), Compliance and Audit

• Responsibility for accurate preparation and filing of the VAT returns and Intrastat filings and other Indirect Tax deliverables. Ensure indirect taxes are collected, and remitted to tax authorities accurately, timely, and efficiently.
• Amend prior returns to correct any past errors/issues. Gather documents and apply for appropriate refunds. File timely and accurate returns for EMEA related to CIT and any other obligations.
• Prepare timely and accurate tax accounting and reporting calculations. Research and verify tax rates and tax codes. Keep up to date on current state policies on taxation and be aware of any upcoming changes in tax law.
• Assist with and/or manage tax and statutory audits (preparation of files and explanations). Support the team for any audits or queries from the tax authorities.
• Ensure data impacting Transfer Pricing compliance and any other obligations is correctly maintained by the relevant teams and documentation is timely and accurately completed.
• Maintaining statutory deadlines (timely preparation of the returns and payments initiations, internal approvals). Pro-actively supports in complying with the local legislation and regulatory requirements with regards to tax/accounting.
• Lead the coordination of the external audit process and ensure timely delivery of audit requests. Ensures J-Sox internal controls are correctly and accurately executed.

Others

• Processing invoices and payments to ensure smooth cash flow, and analysing financial data to help manage budgets and suggest ways to reduce costs.
• Supports the Business Control team regarding the analysis reports and budgeting process, but also provides feedback in order to improve analyses.
• Support any other tasks that may be necessary and requested.

Requirements

• 10+ years' experience in Finance control, Accounting and Tax, specifically with a strong emphasis on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
• Proven track record in financial reporting, compliance, and accounting processes is essential.
• Experience in Maintenance and Support of Accounting Systems: Applicants should possess experience in the maintenance and support of accounting systems, ensuring they run efficiently and effectively.
• Familiarity with troubleshooting, system upgrades, and user support is crucial for optimizing the use of accounting software within the organization.
• Bachelor's degree (or higher professional education) in the field of Accountancy or Business Economics (certified accountant). ACA or ACCA, Associate Chartered Accountant, Completed Accountancy degree.
• Tax qualifications or other equivalent qualification is a plus.
• A strong overall knowledge of all accounting functions and business processes.
• 10 years' Experience in SAP system.
• 5 years' Experience in retail or luxury fashion industry.
• Analytical and process oriented.
• Ability to design and implement operational workflows from scratch or reform existing ones by effectively leveraging tools and systems.
• Good collaboration, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to take ownership and drive work forward independently, rather than waiting to be assigned tasks.
• Proven problem solving and time management skills with an ability to prioritise.
• Self-confident to drive the result.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing environments and handle a wide range of tasks with agility.
• Teamwork and open-minded.
• MS-Excel Application.
• Proficient in English language (both verbal and written).

Please kindly note that they cannot sponsor work visas. Looking forward to your application! Thank you.