Financial Accountant – 9 Month Contract
Compensation & Benefits (EMEA) 

This position is to support our client’s Finance team in the Compensation and Benefits accounting process for the EMEA region. 

This contract role will focus on managing compensation-related accounting activities, ensuring the accuracy and timely completion of month-end close processes, and addressing benefits compliance queries. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in month-end close procedures and experience in navigating benefits compliance issues across multiple EMEA countries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the compensation and benefits accounting process for the EMEA region, ensuring accurate and timely recording of all related expenses and liabilities
• Lead and execute the month-end close process, including the preparation of journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analysis related to compensation and benefits costs
• Prepare and deliver month-end, quarter-end, and year-end reporting packages to senior management, providing detailed variance analysis and insights into compensation-related expenses
• Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations regarding employee benefits, such as pensions, healthcare, bonuses, and other compensation elements in the EMEA region
• Address and resolve benefits compliance queries from internal teams, auditors, and external stakeholders, ensuring adherence to regional statutory requirements
• Work closely with HR, Payroll, and Legal teams to ensure accurate processing and reporting of employee benefits and compensation
• Assist with the implementation of new compensation programs or benefits structures, ensuring smooth integration with the financial reporting and accounting systems
• Provide support during external audits, ensuring that all documentation related to compensation and benefits is accurate and submitted in a timely manner
• Recommend process improvements for the compensation and benefits accounting processes to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and compliance
• Provide guidance and support to junior accounting staff (if applicable), ensuring adherence to accounting procedures and best practices

Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (ACA, ACCA, or equivalent qualification is desirable).
At least 5 years of experience in accounting, with a focus on compensation and benefits accounting.
Proven experience in managing month-end close processes, including financial reporting and reconciliations.
Strong understanding of benefits compliance regulations and statutory requirements across multiple EMEA countries.
Experience dealing with complex benefits compliance queries and resolving issues related to compensation and benefits.
Advanced proficiency in accounting software and Excel (experience with ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle is a plus).
Strong analytical skills, with the ability to manage large volumes of data and provide insightful analysis.