Client Services Accountant

About the role

The Client Services Accountant role is centered on delivering high quality service and producing accurate, timely reporting specifically for Real Estate clients within the Japanese market. You will act as a subject matter expert for designated clients, ensuring that all transactional and regulatory requirements for Real Estate entities in Japan are met with precision. This position requires a deep understanding of property specific accounting and fund administration principles to support the unique needs of the client base. You will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of the client database and ensuring that all financial disclosures are reviewed and completed correctly. The role demands proactive communication to address queries efficiently and to prevent any potential issues before they escalate. Success in this position is measured by your ability to manage client expectations while adhering to strict compliance standards. You will work closely with internal teams to resolve any issues and provide clear, concise information to stakeholders.

Key facts

What you'll do

Investigate and resolve complex client inquiries related to Real Estate accounting within the Japanese jurisdiction.

Process and reconcile monthly financial transactions using property management systems such as Yardi and Investran to ensure data integrity.

Prepare detailed financial statements and disclosures in accordance with Japanese GAAP for designated Real Estate entities.

Perform account analyses and generate ad-hoc reports to support client requests and internal decision making.

Maintain the client master database by updating records and verifying accuracy within the system.

Execute month end close procedures and assist in the preparation of consolidation packages for real estate funds.

Monitor system functionality and identify discrepancies, recommending improvements to streamline processes.

Apply advanced Excel skills to manipulate large datasets, utilizing Pivot Tables and statistical analysis for trend identification.

Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and assist in the implementation of new accounting standards.

Communicate financial performance and key metrics to clients in a clear and professional manner.

Support the development of financial models to assess the viability of real estate investments.

Document all processes and controls to ensure audit readiness and operational efficiency.

Collaborate with tax professionals to ensure accurate withholding and reporting of taxes for real estate transactions.

Provide training and guidance to junior team members on best practices and system usage.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree and a recognized professional accounting qualification, such as Japanese CPA, Japanese Certified Public Tax Accountant, US CPA, or an equivalent certification, are held.

At least three years of management accounting or fund accounting experience within the real estate industry is possessed.

Strong Japanese and English communication skills, both written and verbal, are demonstrated.

Proficiency with property management systems such as Yardi or Horizon and advanced Excel functions, including Pivot Tables and data analysis, is shown.

Understanding of Japanese GAAP is demonstrated, with working knowledge of US GAAP and IFRS.

Excellent organizational, prioritization, and interpersonal skills are demonstrated, and fast-paced environments with tight deadlines are thrived in.

The ability to manage multiple client accounts simultaneously without sacrificing accuracy is established.

A meticulous approach to detail is utilized to ensure the accuracy of financial records and reports.

The capability to work independently and as part of a distributed team is proven.

Strong problem solving skills are applied to overcome challenges related to real estate financial data.

The willingness to adhere to internal controls and compliance procedures is unwavering.

Practical notes

The role is full-time and hybrid working arrangements are open to discussion.

Typical interview steps

Customer success interviews usually include a support scenario, a communication exercise, and behavioral questions. Candidates may be asked to handle an upset customer or plan an onboarding call. Some loops test product knowledge. Empathy and clear writing are the core skills. Interviewers often ask how you would bring an unhappy account back on track. Structure your answer around listening, a plan, and follow up.

Good to know

Roles in this field rely on expertise in real estate accounting, fund administration, and compliance.

Familiarity with property management systems and advanced Excel is common in this type of position.

Work often involves cross-cultural communication and collaboration with clients and stakeholders in financial services.

Professional certifications and continuing professional development are valued in this industry.

Strong data analysis and attention to detail help ensure accuracy in financial reporting.

Questions to ask

Worth asking in any interview: how the team measures success, who the role works with daily, what the onboarding looks like, and what the company is trying to achieve this year. Asking what past hires did well is a strong final question. Keep the list short and pick the questions that matter most to you.

Career growth

Customer success careers grow from specialist to manager and director levels. Some people move toward account management or solutions engineering. Deep product knowledge and cross-functional work with support, sales, and product teams become key at senior levels. Success careers reward product depth and relationship skills equally. Many leaders in this function started in support or account management.