Controller

Job Type: Location Type: Not Specified

 

Description

This is a hands-on, multi-functional position supporting our newly established and growing restaurant business. As the business expands, this role is expected to manage and perform day-to-day and weekly Accounting & Finance tasks across multiple locations while maintaining strong internal controls and compliance.

At the initial stage, this position will cover accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), general ledger entries, basic financial reporting, and customer/vendor invoicing. As the company grows and the Accounting & Finance team expands, this role will evolve to focus more on financial compliance, internal control management, and supporting process improvements to meet the needs of a larger multi-location operation.

Job Responsibilities (Initial Stage):

This position does not have the authority to authorize new vendors, change bank account details, or approve final payments without dual management sign-off. Bank reconciliations and larger payments must be reviewed by the Restaurant Operations Charman/President or designated approved.
• Process daily sales data and reconcile POS system deposits with bank statements.
• Post customer payments and monitor AR aging (catering, events, or house accounts).
• Follow up on outstanding balances in a timely manner.
• Receive, review, and process vendor invoices accurately and on schedule.
• Match purchase orders, packing slips, and vendor invoices as required.
• Prepare check runs and electronic payments; coordinate necessary dual approvals.
• Maintain accurate and current vendor records.
• Prepare and post journal entries (sales, expenses, payroll summaries, adjustments).
• Perform monthly reconciliations of bank and credit card accounts.
• Assist with month-end, quarterly, and annual closings.
• Generate and issue invoices for catering, private events, and special orders.
• Track outstanding invoices and report AR status to management regularly.
• Keep organized, complete, and up-to-date accounting files for all transactions.
• Assist in developing and maintaining company financial procedures to strengthen compliance and internal controls.
• Collaborate with the group company Controller to help develop restaurant finance and accounting policies.
• Identify and promptly report discrepancies, unusual transactions, or policy violations.
• Support audits and assist management in strengthening financial controls as the company expands.
• Assist with the preparation of financial reports or special projects as assigned.
• Provide support to the group company Accounting Manager or Restaurant Operations Chairman/President on budgeting, expense tracking, and cost monitoring.

Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a recognized professional accounting certificate demonstrating strong competencies in accounting theory, GAAP, and professional ethics.
• Proven experience in all core Accounting and Finance functions.
• Prior experience in the chain restaurant or food service industry was strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with accounting software; experience with Dynamics 365 Business Central is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with changing priorities.
• A quick learner who can adapt to new tools, processes, and software.
• Excellent work ethic, punctuality, and reliability.
• Fluent in English; Japanese language skills are a plus.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities with great attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze large, complex data sets accurately.
• High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Strong time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Word, Excel, and Outlook.]

Certificates & Licenses (Preferred but Not Required):
• Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation or equivalent recognized bookkeeping certification.
• QuickBooks Certification or other small business accounting software training.

Language Ability:
• Speak, Read and Write English fluently
• Speak, Read, and Write Japanese is a plus