Senior Manager, Finance, Administration & Strategy – Japanese Bilingual

A global automotive manufacturing company is seeking an experienced Senior Manager of Administration & Strategy to join its Kansas City operation.Reporting to the Plant Manager, this role oversees key back-office functions including Finance & Accounting, IT, and Procurement, while supporting financial planning, profitability improvement, business process optimization, and mid-term business strategy.The position also works closely with senior management in the U.S. and Japan.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee Finance & Accounting, IT, and Procurement functions.Lead budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and closing activities.Manage P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow, OpEx, and CapEx planning.Develop KPIs and identify opportunities to improve profitability and operational performance.Partner with the Plant Manager on business and financial strategy.Lead business process improvement, ERP, and organizational optimization initiatives.Collaborate with U.S. and Japan headquarters and cross-functional teams.Provide leadership and direction to the Finance & Accounting team.Supervisory Responsibilities:Directly supervise the Accounting Manager and accounting team and provide overall direction, coaching, and support.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field; MBA preferred.10+ years of business experience, including financial management, managerial accounting, or controlling.Proficient Japanese language skills are required.Strong experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and business planning.Experience with business process improvement, ERP, or operational transformation.Leadership and people-management experience.Manufacturing industry experience strongly preferred.Strong communication, analytical, and cross-functional collaboration skills.