Accounts Receivable Manager

Required Role/Competency:

・Takes the initiative in resolving issues that involve various stakeholders, including inter-divisional coordination and solving problems between different divisions regarding procurement and payment workflows.

・Anticipates cross-divisional risks and problems, particularly in relation to cash outflows, vendor disputes, and compliance, and takes the initiative in dealing with such issues.

・Motivates each member of the AR team to increase his/her commitment and operational excellence.

Responsible Duties:

• Lead and oversee accounts receivable, credit management, and collections for corporate divisions and brand business units.
• Coordinate all monthly/quarterly/annual AR closing activities and ensure readiness for related audit activities.
• Analyze and monitor accounts receivable data, including aging reports and DSO (Days Sales Outstanding), and present reports in an accurate and timely manner.
• Maintain internal control and safeguards for the credit-to-cash cycle; ensure full compliance with corporate account reconciliation standards, statutory & USGAAP reporting, and SOX.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures with an emphasis on internal controls regarding credit limits and collection protocols.
• Supervise the accounts receivable group to ensure all financial reporting deadlines and collection targets are met.
• Report and communicate clearly and consistently regarding AR status and credit risks to corporate division managers and brand business unit managers.
• Be a primary interface between sales teams, brand business units, the finance team, and management regarding customer payment status.
• Serve as a primary liaison to the regional office and NY office for accounts receivable and credit-related matters.
• Assist in the annual budgeting and planning process, specifically forecasting cash inflows from collections.
• Design and continually improve reporting processes provided to the brands and management team to prioritize high-risk accounts.
• Establish and implement short- and long-range departmental goals, objectives, and operating procedures for the AR function.- Design, establish, and maintain an organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish the department's goals and objectives in line with the global strategy.
  
  

Requirements:
- More than 5 years of experience in accounting or finance; a focus on AR or credit management is preferred.
- Knowledge of Japan/US GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
- Proven experience leading a team of professional staff.
- Excellent communication skills in both Japanese and English.
- Outstanding interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills 
- Ability to anticipate, identify, and resolve complex financial issues related to credit and collections.
- Proficiency in SAP or other major ERP systems.