Senior Accountant - Service Office

Senior Accountant Opportunity at IKEA

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Accountant to oversee and perform accounting operations, including ledger management, reporting, and compliance. You will mentor and guide a team of accountants, ensuring financial accuracy and adherence to company policies. This role focuses heavily on accounting operations and requires a deep understanding of financial principles.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, ensuring timely and accurate journal entries and reconciliations.
• Review and analyze financial data, ensuring compliance with accounting principles/IFRS and company policies.
• Prepare and review monthly, half-yearly, and annual financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement).
• Participate in the annual budgeting and forecasting process, providing financial insights and analysis to support business planning.
• Prepare management reports and financial analysis for decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with statutory reporting, tax, and audit requirements.

Closing, Controls & Compliance

• Lead month-end, half-year, and year-end closing activities and ensure accurate reporting within deadlines.
• Review and approve account reconciliations, accruals, and provisions.
• Ensure internal control procedures are implemented and adhered to.
• Prepare audit schedules and liaise with external auditors for timely completion of audits.
• Coordinate with tax advisors, banks, insurers, and regulatory bodies on compliance matters.

Treasury & Payables Management within Accounting Operations

• Monitor cash flow, bank balances, and ensure sufficient liquidity for operational needs.
• Review supplier payments, payroll transfers, and statutory payments in line with internal approval policies.
• Manage accounts payable and receivable cycles to optimize working capital.
• Coordinate with banks on transfers, facilities, and reconciliations.

Systems, Process Improvement & Projects

• Support automation, digitalization, and ERP enhancements for improved financial processes related to accounting operations.
• Lead or participate in finance-related projects and cross-functional initiatives.
• Identify process inefficiencies and recommend improvements to strengthen internal controls.
• Maintain accurate accounting master data and documentation for audit readiness.

People Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor accountants to ensure continuous performance improvement and knowledge sharing.
• Foster collaboration within the Finance team and with cross-functional departments.
• Promote a positive work environment and drive alignment with IKEA’s values and culture.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Economics.
• Professional qualification (or part qualification) such as CPA, ACCA, or CMA is preferred.
• Proven experience as an Accountant or Senior Accountant, preferably in a retail or multinational environment.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles/IFRS, internal controls, and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.