Commercial Finance Manager

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World.
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!

The Finance department in BATJ exists to provide both strategic directions / guidance to the management and the organization of BAT Japan Group (the “Group”) and operational finance services the Group in order to support its achievement of its business plan. The department also monitors the Japan Group finances, overall financial performance and provides periodic updates to Japan group management. Broadly, the Finance function consists of two groups: (i) Corporate Finance, which provides business planning, business performance forecasting, statutory reporting, as well as tax/treasury services; and (ii) Commercial Finance, which works as a business partner for Marketing and Supply Chain, providing such advices on resource allocation, business case preparation, investment return and spends effectiveness, channel and brand analysis, and budget management. This position resides within the Commercial Finance, which is headed by Commercial Finance Controller.

1. To contribute and support the development and execution of strategic planning and decision-making process of the Marketing department e.g. in respect of Investments and Pricing.
2. To actively contribute in meetings, activities and projects with other members of the senior Marketing team, for planning and review of key initiatives undertaken by Marketing department to achieve the business targets.
3. To support and conduct evaluation of the effectiveness/efficiency of Marketing initiatives through financial analysis to support better decision-making and resource allocation; support the process of benefit realization and tracking. These analyses include:

• Product/Brand Profitability (incl. pricing decision)
• Business case and Post-Implementation Review for new brand/SKU launches
• Evaluation of investments in key Marketing initiatives (promotions etc.)
• Trade Marketing Region/Area Profitability
• Financial evaluations, business cases – NPV, IRR ROI.
• Payback, sensitivity / scenario analysis

4. Support and coordinate the Company Plan & quarterly budget processes for Marketing. Management and monitoring of expenses and providing meaningful expense variance analysis to marketing and ensuring expenses are in line with planned budgets. Support effective budget controls through a robust governance structure
5. Support spends efficacy and cost management within the Marketing team. Contribute to ensuring resource allocation decisions are based on enhancing shareholder value and in line with company strategy.
6. Support adherence to accounting and governance procedures for Marketing are in place and operating effectively. Contribute to identifying ways to improve the current control environment & business processes and support implementation of changes without compromising creativity and enterprising spirit, both within the department and where appropriate within external parties working on our behalf e.g. creative agencies.
7. Contributes as an effective business partner to Marketing. Ensure quality guidance in all relevant areas of work is provided to all sections (Brands, Trade, Research, Merchandizing, Product Development, and Innovations) of Marketing department, as well as to external customers/suppliers such as distributors and creative agencies.

• Senior Commercial Finance Manager
• Commercial Finance Controller
• Corporate Finance Controller
• Finance Director in small-mid size market outside Japan

• Understanding of the relationships / interfaces between departments and functions.
• High commercial approach and strong management and interpersonal skills to address complexity and subjectivity of marketing
• Strong resilience and high agility to adapt to changes quickly
• Ability to work with all levels of staff within the company and handle relationships with external parties.

• Proactive, persuasive, curious, and prepared to challenge status quo

• 5+ years Finance business partnering experience (FMCG industry experience an advantage)
• Financial analytical skills such as ROI and NPV to perform/review financial analyses together with the capability to provide commercial insights
• Cross-function business partnering experience
• Understanding of excise and pricing strategy, company planning process
• Understanding of marketing strategy, principles, and relevant analytical tools
• Background as well as knowledge on commercial aspects of the business such as Trade & Brand Marketing activities
• Thorough understanding and knowledge of financial management and systems
• Fluency in both English and Japanese

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.