[CONFIDENTIAL] Controlling Senior Manager – Shinagawa
Location: Shinagawa, Tokyo
Employment Type: Full-time
Job Overview
The Controlling function plays a critical role in providing financial insights to management and supporting strategic decision-making to drive profitability. This role involves business planning (forecasting, long-range planning, and budgeting), monthly performance analysis and reporting, and preparation of business cases. The Controlling Senior Manager also ensures optimal resource utilization through budgetary control and contributes to operational improvements, process efficiency, and internal compliance.
This position will coordinate Controlling activities across brands, drive improvement initiatives, and serve as a point of contact for the regional Controlling team at headquarters, working closely with the Controlling Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Ensure achievement of short- to mid-term business objectives through accurate forecasting and updates from key stakeholders.
Track and steer brand financial performance to meet budgeted and forecasted targets, including group and brand-level goals.
Monitor risks and opportunities to support data-driven decisions.
Establish and improve internal control procedures and standard operating processes (SOPs) in coordination with HQ.
Lead process optimization efforts, including automation initiatives.
Oversee the maintenance and enhancement of Controlling-related financial systems, including coordination of system implementations, testing, and documentation (e.g., SAP).
Enforce strict budget control and internal approval processes.
Manage and develop Controlling team members.
Coordinate and prepare financial review meetings with both headquarters and local management.
Lead financial review meetings with senior leadership including Managing Director and department heads.
Drive long-term strategic planning and budgeting in alignment with group and brand directives.
Ensure the achievement of return-on-sales (ROS%) targets in collaboration with global and local finance teams.
Liaise with internal and external auditors to ensure compliance.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Forecast accuracy in assigned areas
Compliance with IFRS/JGAAP closing procedures
Achievement of group-level financial targets
Employee satisfaction (measured by group survey)
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Fluency in both Japanese and English (required for effective internal/external communication)
10+ years of relevant financial controlling or FP&A experience
Minimum 3 years of people management experience
Strong numerical accuracy and attention to detail
Experience negotiating with global HQ, external agencies, and key stakeholders
Skilled in facilitating senior-level meetings
Capable of driving cross-functional communication and initiatives
Proven ability to develop strategic plans and operational processes within area of responsibility
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Understanding of ERP systems and financial operations (e.g., SAP)
Curious, detail-oriented, and proactive
Adaptable, hands-on, and comfortable working in a fast-changing environment