Accounting Manager

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Thales is a global technology leader trusted by governments, institutions, and enterprises to tackle their most demanding challenges. From quantum applications and artificial intelligence to cybersecurity and 6G innovation, our solutions empower critical decisions rooted in human intelligence. Operating at the forefront of aerospace and space, cybersecurity and digital identity, we’re driven by a mission to build a future we can all trust.

Present in Japan since 1970, Thales promotes technological innovation and is an active and recognised partner for the development of Japanese infrastructure. Our strategy focuses on strengthening local partnerships and collaborating with key Japanese industrial players to address global needs as we continuously establish a dynamic and skilled workforce.

Key Responsibilities

1 Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Lead the preparation of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with Japanese GAAP and IFRS.
• Responsible for the General Ledger, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statements.
• Ensure compliance with local tax laws (e.g., Corporate Tax, Consumption Tax, Withholding Tax) and regulatory requirements (e.g., Reporting to the Bank of Japan on Overseas Transactions).
• Coordinate with external auditors during annual audits and tax inspections.
• Oversee intercompany accounting and ensure proper allocation of costs/revenues in alignment with Thales Group policies.

2 Internal Controls & Risk Management

· Strengthen internal controls to mitigate financial risks and ensure adherence to Thales Group policies, including quarterly and annual reporting through ICMA and ICQ.

· Implement and maintain accounting policies and procedures to improve efficiency and accuracy.

· Monitor foreign exchange (FX) exposure and hedging strategies for international transactions.

3 Team Leadership & Development

· Manage a team of accountants across two legal entities, providing guidance, mentoring, and performance evaluations.

· Foster a culture of accuracy, transparency, and continuous improvement within the accounting function.

· Collaborate with Controlling and Treasury teams to support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.

4 Strategic & Operational Support

· Support business development by analyzing financial data and identifying growth opportunities.

· Ensure ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) integrity and drive process improvements in financial operations.

Stakeholder & Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Act as a key liaison between Thales Japan, Thales Group HQ, and external stakeholders (e.g., banks, tax authorities, auditors).

· Contribute to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability reporting initiatives.

Qualifications & Skills

Education & Certifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (CPA, CMA, or equivalent certification is a plus).

· Master’s degree (MBA, MSc in Finance/Accounting) is desirable.

Professional Experience

· Minimum 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, with 5+ years in a managerial role.

· Big 4 (PwC, EY, KPMG, Deloitte) or multinational corporation (MNC) experience is highly preferred.

· Strong expertise in Japanese GAAP, IFRS, and tax regulations.

· Experience in manufacturing, defense, aerospace, or high-tech industries is a plus.

Technical & Soft Skills

· Proficient in ERP systems (SAP byDesign, Oracle, etc.).

· Advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUP, PivotTables, macros) and financial modeling.

· Excellent communication skills in English (business level) and Japanese (fluent, JLPT N1/N2).

· Leadership & strategic thinking with the ability to drive change.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

Personal Attributes

· High integrity, ethical standards, and commitment to compliance.

· Adaptability to work in a dynamic, multicultural environment.

· Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels.

At Thales, we’re committed to fostering a workplace where respect, trust, collaboration, and passion drive everything we do. Here, you’ll feel empowered to bring your best self, thrive in a supportive culture, and love the work you do. Join us, and be part of a team reimagining technology to create solutions that truly make a difference – for a safer, greener, and more inclusive world.