Senior Accountant Local F&A

PSI is a leading Contract Research Organization (CRO) with about 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Originated in Switzerland, PSI is a privately owned, full-service CRO with a global reach, supporting clinical trials across multiple countries and continents. Our reputation for being highly selective about the projects we undertake highlights our commitment to delivering high-quality, timely services across a broad spectrum of therapeutic indications. At PSI, we foster an environment where a diverse range of colleagues feel welcomed and valued. Our inclusive culture is a cornerstone of our success, enabling us to attract and retain top talent globally. We are not just about conducting clinical trials; we are about building a community where every team member has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in the pharmaceutical industry.

We are looking for an experienced, hands-on accountant to take primary responsibility for Finance & Accounting for our Japan entity. You will help bring accounting activities in-house from our external provider and support the implementation of SAP. You will work closely with Group Finance and external accounting and tax advisers. This is a hybrid role with two days per week in our Tokyo or Osaka office and three days working from home. Your responsibilities Independently manage the Japan entity’s day-to-day accounting, including financial entries, payments, bank transactions, accruals and reconciliations. Manage monthly, quarterly and year-end closings in accordance with Japanese GAAP and Group reporting requirements. Prepare the entity’s Group reporting package, supporting schedules and explanations of significant movements. Take responsibility for local statutory and tax reporting. Prepare deliverables directly where appropriate, and coordinate and review work performed by external advisers. Ensure payroll amounts are correctly recorded and reconciled, working with the payroll provider as needed. Coordinate audit requests, provide supporting documentation and follow up on findings. Help bring accounting activities in-house in a phased manner, while coordinating activities that remain with the external accounting provider. Support the SAP implementation as the local F&A contact, including accounting requirements, process design, data review, testing and preparation for day-to-day use. Establish, document and improve local accounting procedures, payment processes and internal controls. Support budgeting, forecasting and financial analysis with relevant accounting information. Act as the main local accounting contact for internal departments, vendors, auditors, advisers and Group Finance, and provide ad hoc F&A support as needed.

Your profile Degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field, or a recognized equivalent qualification. At least six years of relevant accounting experience, including hands-on responsibility for full-cycle accounting and financial close. Strong practical knowledge of Japanese GAAP, statutory accounting requirements and local tax regulations. Ability to work independently as the primary accountant for a legal entity and resolve accounting issues. Experience with local statutory reporting, tax reporting and Group reporting in an international environment. Strong Japanese and English communication skills, including the ability to discuss accounting matters in English. Strong Excel skills, attention to detail and a proactive approach to improving accounting processes and controls. Ability to work effectively with Group Finance, internal stakeholders and external advisers. Experience with SAP, ERP implementation or process improvement projects is an advantage. Payroll experience and experience in the clinical trial or pharmaceutical industry are also welcome.