Help us use technology to make a big green dent in the universe!
Kraken powers some of the most innovative global developments in energy.
We’re a technology company focused on creating a smart, sustainable energy system. From optimising renewable generation, creating a more intelligent grid and enabling utilities to provide excellent customer experiences, our operating system for energy is transforming the industry around the world in a way that benefits everyone.
It’s a really exciting time in energy. Help us make a real impact on shaping a better, more sustainable future.
Kraken Customer
What we do: build the most AI-driven, innovative, forward-thinking platform for energy management. From optimising resources to delivering cost-effective, exceptional customer experiences through advanced Customer Information Systems (CIS), billing, meter data management, CRM, and AI-driven communications, Kraken is powering the next wave of innovation in the energy industry.
Why we do it: future energy will not look like energy as we know it today. We need to not just think about our future, but build for it. Now.
About the team
Our Finance team is at the forefront of enabling our business to scale with control and confidence across regions. Working closely with our teams in Customer Success, Delivery, and Operations, we ensure financial integrity while driving strategic decision-making. This role joins a high-impact team that supports global expansion, including our key markets in the US, Europe and APAC, and will play a crucial role in setting up the finance function from the ground up in the Japanese region.
About the role
We’re looking for a hands-on Finance Manager to take ownership of our Japanese finance operations and support broader APAC regional activities. This is a role suitable for someone who enjoys building from the ground up, thrives on autonomy, and brings robust technical finance and compliance expertise specific to the Japanese market.
In this role, you'll develop core processes, ensure strict compliance with Japanese tax and regulatory requirements, and provide critical financial reporting and strategic guidance to local and global leadership.
What you'll do
- Lead the establishment and day-to-day running of the finance function for the Japanese entity, serving as the primary finance contact for the local leadership team.
- Lead on the completion of year end audits and preparation of the annual financial reports for Japanese entities.
- Ensure local compliance is maintained across all core areas, including corporate tax, payroll, statutory reporting, and regulatory filings in Japan.
- Own and execute all monthly and quarter-end reporting activities, ensuring adherence to global standards.
- Manage accounts receivable and payables, ensuring smooth cash flow management.
- Manage cashflow operations
- Partner with internal and external teams to support project delivery and align finance with business milestones.
- Work with external stakeholders and clients on contract support and financial processes.
- Ensure compliance, documentation, and internal controls are current and robust.
- Collaborate with other regional finance leads to drive global consistency and process improvement.
- Identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities to enhance efficiency.
What you'll need
- A recognised international accounting qualification (CA or CPA)
- Deep, proven understanding of Japanese GAAP and local tax compliance requirements is essential
- Experience working closely with a Zeirishi (Licensed Tax Accountant) on statutory and tax matters.
- Significant experience with Japanese compliance requirements across corporate tax, payroll, and regulatory filings
- A proactive, hands-on operator who is comfortable managing operational details.
- A background in managing and building processes from a foundational stage.
- Understanding of IFRS and US GAAP would be an asset.
- Experience with advanced ERP systems; NetSuite experience is a significant plus.
- Fluency in both Japanese (business level, written and verbal) and English is a must to manage local teams, external advisors, and global stakeholders.
Kraken is a certified Great Place to Work in France, Germany, Spain, Japan and Australia. In the UK we are one of the Best Workplaces on Glassdoor with a score of 4.7. Check out our Welcome to the Jungle site (FR/EN) to learn more about our teams and culture.
Are you ready for a career with us? We want to ensure you have all the tools and environment you need to unleash your potential. If you have any specific accommodations or a unique preference, please contact us at [email protected] and we'll do what we can to customise your interview process for comfort and maximum magic!
Studies have shown that some groups of people, like women, are less likely to apply to a role unless they meet 100% of the job requirements. Whoever you are, if you like one of our jobs, we encourage you to apply as you might just be the candidate we hire. Across Kraken, we're looking for genuinely decent people who are honest and empathetic. Our people are our strongest asset and the unique skills and perspectives people bring to the team are the driving force of our success. As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute. We consider all applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. U.S. based candidates can learn more about their EEO rights here.
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