Overview This position sits within the Financial Reporting team and plays a central part in delivering accurate accounting, compliance, and reporting for the UK market. The team is responsible for managing all month‑end close activities, external reporting, statutory compliance, and reporting submissions to both the European HQ and ultimately Japan HQ. Reporting to the Senior Finance Manager, the role offers strong career development within a fast‑paced retail FMCG environment. The role covers key month‑end processes, external reporting obligations, audit coordination, and local tax filings. There is also scope to drive improvements in identifying areas to standardise, streamline and enhance existing reporting processes across the wider finance group. As a Senior Financial Accountant, every day will be diverse. Responsibilities Audit & External Reporting

Support the Senior Finance Manager with the year‑end and quarterly close activities, and the coordination of the audit process with KPMG. Liaise with external auditors throughout the audit cycle to ensure timely delivery of audit requests and adherence to agreed timelines. Coordinate the preparation of the annual statutory financial statements in accordance with UK reporting standards. Monitor updates to statutory requirements and update internal processes to maintain compliance. Build and maintain strong relationships with external accounting partners to ensure accurate and timely reporting. Support internal audit processes and maintain J‑SOX reporting requirements.

Tax Compliance

Support the corporation tax compliance in partnership with external advisors, including transfer pricing and capital allowances. Prepare and submit VAT returns and manage other local compliance requirements, including employment taxes, environmental reporting, plastic packaging tax, and statistical filings. Maintain awareness of regulatory changes and assess areas of potential impact.

Strengthen the Control Environment

Drive robust governance and control environment by defining accounting policies, risk controls, and compliance processes. Monitor the effectiveness of internal controls and system workflows across the end‑to‑end finance processes to support retail business functions. Safeguard data integrity by ensuring adherence to group accounting policies and J‑SOX control and reporting requirements.

Month‑End Reporting Integrity

Work as part of the Financial Reporting team to deliver the month‑end close process across all UK & Ireland Shiseido Group brands. Ownership of centralised UK retail finance activities including accounting for leases, capital expenditure, and boutique management. Prepare journal entries and complete supporting balance sheet reconciliations across key retail business areas. Prepare monthly business analysis on management account movements and prepare the quarterly reporting pack. Support other business advisory activities and ad‑hoc analysis for the Financial Reporting and Commercial Finance teams.

Team Development & Improvement

Drive ongoing improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance processes, strengthen controls, and optimise reporting across the finance function. Contribute to ad‑hoc analysis and project work for both the Financial Reporting and Commercial Finance teams. Assist senior members of the Financial Reporting team in maintaining a culture of curiosity and continuous improvement. Mentor junior finance team members to support their development and foster a collaborative, high‑performing finance team.

Key Competencies

Technical Excellence in Finance & Reporting – Demonstrates strong command of accounting standards, month‑end processes, and statutory reporting requirements. Control & Governance Mindset – Builds and maintains a robust control environment, strengthening risk management, data integrity, and compliance frameworks. Tax Knowledge and Regulatory Awareness – Applies sound understanding of UK tax regimes and proactively monitors regulatory changes to anticipate business impact. Analytical & Problem Solving Skills – Interprets complex financial data, identifies issues quickly, and develops practical solutions. Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement – Works effectively with cross‑functional teams, external advisors, and auditors to drive alignment and shared outcomes. Continuous Improvement Orientation – Seeks opportunities to streamline processes, enhance systems, and elevate the efficiency of the finance function. Systems & Digital Capability – Leverages digital tools to improve reporting accuracy, generate insights, and enhance operational efficiency. Team Development & Coaching – Supports the growth of junior team members and contributes to a positive working culture.

Qualifications

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with two years post‑qualification experience. Experience in a public accounting firm or audit environment is preferred. Experience coordinating both external and internal audits. Strong understanding of financial controls and governance frameworks. Working knowledge of UK indirect and direct tax regimes, with experience managing relationships with HMRC. High level of computer literacy including advanced Excel skills and experience with SAP S/4 and Power BI.

Benefits

Generous product allocation & discount to spend on our products. Enhanced work/life balance with 26 days holiday + bank holidays + birthday day off + time off for marriage or house move, plus enhanced parental allowance and holiday buy scheme. 8 % matching pension scheme (up to) and life assurance up to four times your salary. Annual bonus scheme based on personal development plans and business performance. Flexible Fridays to focus on what is important to you. Flexible & hybrid work patterns – 60 % of your time in the office. Wellbeing programmes including mental health first aiders, free counselling, access to digital GP, and exclusive retail discounts. Monthly access to Learning & Development opportunities for continuous growth.

Diversity & Inclusion We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability or religion, and are proud to promote a culture that supports and appreciates people from all backgrounds. We are a disability‑confident employer and offer flexibility, part‑time arrangements and adjustments to support the best experience for all staff. #J-18808-Ljbffr