Chief Accountant

PURPOSE OF THE JOB
Plans and directs accounting activities within the Finance department and cross functionally through subordinate supervisor. Designs and leads the accounting strategy for the market with the intention of maximizing financial benefit within the regulation framework. This person is key in advising the market management on appropriate business planning and help in decision-making processes to ensure that businesses are financially successful. Manages the balance sheet and profit and loss of the market. Employees in this job perform professional accounting work in the recording, reporting and monitoring of the financial transactions of the market. Work includes reviewing fiscal records; and preparing financial reports, analysis; and recommending modifications and improvements. An employee in this classification manages subordinate accounting staff.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develops and leads the accounting team and participates in market, and regional events and projects as head of the accounting function. Ensures proper ongoing training and coaching. Manages back up and minimise key man risk
Define the accounting strategy for the accounting department and is responsible for the function.
Responsible for day-to-day finance and accounts operations within the entity by managing over the accounting department main processes (month end, financial statements, reconciliation, cash management treasury, funding, payroll, GL etc.) also providing technical advice on complex accounting issues
Reviews and approves full set of accounts and ensures timely closing of accounts and reconciliation process ensuring proper involvement of MD. Ensures that the financial reporting and the financial statements are reported in a correct and compliant manner
Monitors and analyses financial reports or statements including variance analysis vs trends and plans supporting the business proactively
Establishes and enforces proper accounting methods, policies and principles. Ensure the company is updated on latest IFRS standards
Coordinate and complete annual audits. Establish and maintain fiscal files and records. Support MD in ensuring entity is compliant with accounting standards and tax regulations and cooperates with external auditors as appropriate. Manages tax compliance and drives tax efficiency and performs tax activities as appropriate
Maintains internal control and effective accounting system and policies for a certain market or process
Improves systems, procedures, drives, and maintains changes in processes and systems. Brings to the attention of the MD any abnormality in the market or process and initiate corrective actions
Participates in market and regional projects and events as market or process expert
Assigns projects and direct sr. accountant to ensure compliance and accuracy
Coordinates Internal control processes and procedures as well as other audit activities cross functionally
Continually review and mange finance operational risk within the relevant market or process
Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations
Provides back up to the Senior Accountant as needed

EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
BS/BA in Finance or related field is required
Accounting certification is desirable (CIMA, ACCA etc.)
Leasing accounting knowledge – additional advantage
Typically more than 5 years of accounting experience
Previous management experience

COMPETENCIES & SKILLS
Excellent and up to date knowledge of reporting standards
Strong evidence of personal initiative and outstanding verbal and written communication skills English
Innovative problem solving and strong analytical and quantitative abilities
Proven organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and work effectively on multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
Ability and desire to lead a team
Proficient with MS Office, with advanced knowledge in Excel and PowerPoint. Knowledge of Hyperion; Experience with SAP desired

For more information please contact:
Mimi Ilioska, Managing Director Cross-Border Finance, +46 31 3224212


Union representatives:
Unionen: Stefan Nordqvist, stefan.nordqvist@volvo.com
Akademiker: Gert Andersson, Gert.Andersson@volvo.com
Ledarna: Mikael Wennergren, mikael.wennergren@volvo.com