Accounting Manager

Full-time (40 hours per week) · Spark Breda, the Netherlands

Ever thought about making a big difference in the world of renewable energy? Join us at Spark, a social enterprise in the Netherlands set to transform the African energy sector. We design smart solar home systems for emerging markets. This role isn't just about crunching numbers; it's about enabling life-changing power and making a real difference every day. Are you comfortable working in a dynamic and sometimes chaotic environment where processes are not yet fully defined? Do you want the opportunity to shape and own the accounting function? If so, we could be a great match! Why you? Because you're not just looking for a job—you're looking for a way to make an impact. At Spark, we provide solar home systems to distributors who then sell these systems to end-users in Africa on a pay-as-you-go basis. This financing helps them afford inventory and expand their reach without immediate full payment from customers. Your role is key in making this happen by ensuring a reliable and stable accounting function, which serves as the foundation for a healthy and impactful finance organization.

What you will be doing

Spark is a small, dynamic organization where things are constantly evolving; working in emerging markets presents unique challenges. That requires, for instance, thoughtful design of our Order-to-Cash process, that appropriately addresses topics like: financial services, receivables administration, and related revenue recognition.

Sounds like a challenge? Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone and adapt to these uncertainties? The complexity of our business requires equally flexible finance solutions. Your mission is to make the accounting function bullet-proof by ensuring complete, correct, and timely accounting and reporting for Spark Group entities. Your main tasks will include:

• Accounting Management : The best way to grow into the role is to get your hands ‘dirty’. You handle daily accounting operations for Spark’s Dutch entity: You process payables, receivables, payroll, bank reconciliation and everything else. You assure timely and accurate payments. You may expect support from an accounting assistant whom you are also managing.
• Financial Management: For Spark’s Dutch entity, prepare financial statements (balance sheet, profit & loss, and cash flow). Provide necessary comments where needed. Oversee the same for Spark entities in Africa and China. Consolidate financials of Spark group entities. Manage month-end and year-end closing processes, including reconciliations and journal entries. Develop and maintain an accounting manual to document procedures. Own yearly statutory and tax filings, and balance sheet review process (internal).
• Team leadership: Supervise and guide one direct report, including training and performance evaluations. Collaborate with accounting offices in Africa and China to ensure smooth operations.
• Compliance and Audit: Ensure compliance with government reporting requirements and tax filings. Coordinate and manage external audits and internal controls assessments. Implement and monitor compliance with internal financial and accounting policies. Set-up and maintain internal control framework.
• Systems Management: Maintain and improve accounting systems and software to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Ensure the integrity and security of financial data.

You'll report to Simon, the Finance Lead.

“A few years ago, I started considering a career in energy transition to contribute to a better world. I’m thrilled to have found that opportunity with Spark, where I enjoy building and leading the finance team by giving people the tools and space they need to shine." - Simon, Finance Lead

What you will bring

• You have a background in auditing (preferably top 10 audit firms). Alternatively, you have already gained experience as Accounting Manager and Spark would be your 2nd or 3rd job.
• Minimum bachelor’s degree in accounting and tax.
• You can communicate proficiently in English. Any other language is welcome.
• You have in-depth knowledge of Dutch GAAP and Dutch tax accounting & regulations, or you can convince us you’re a quick learner and can pick this up fast. You are familiar with international taxation (transfer pricing, intercompany accounting)

Other skills you’ll bring:

• You are structured and systematic in your approach. You enjoy creating processes that streamline operations.
• You can adapt to the unpredictability and uncertainties of our market, understanding how it affects accounting. You think creatively and find innovative solutions to financial challenges.
• We are a small team, we often need to wear different hats – you are okay with this. You like to think how you can improve the way we work and come with solutions to challenges.
• At Spark we love to laugh - your sense of humor is contagious.
• You take full ownership of your tasks, seeing them through from start to finish. You complement the team by challenging them to do the same and stay focused.
• You thrive in an international environment and appreciate diverse perspectives, avoiding a 'my way or the highway' mentality. We hope to see you regularly in our Breda office.

At Spark, we welcome everyone. We believe everyone should have the chance to do well at work, no matter where they come from. If you're excited about this job but don't meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply!

Perks of working with us

• A salary that matches your experience (€5.500 - €6.500 gross per month) and 8% vacation pay.
• €500,- a year to spend on your professional development.
• Travel allowance, fresh daily lunches, snacks, monthly drinks and an informal office in a nice location near Breda station.
• A multicultural, international and welcoming team environment with colleagues in the Netherlands, Africa, and China, 15 nationalities. Our diversity brings us closer and makes us better.
• We are open for international applicants; Spark is able to arrange a visum for you and your family in the Netherlands (note; Spark does not offer relocation fees)
• Plenty of chances to take on more responsibility in other Finance areas such as consolidation, FP&A and cost accounting.
• You'll have the autonomy to work on projects that spark your interest and get the chance to be part of a movement that's changing lives.

Recruitment process

• Meet Simon (Finance Lead) & Andres (Invest Manager) online to see if we click and to dive into your skills.
• A more in-depth second interview with Marcel (Managing Director) & Evert (interim CFO) at our Breda office.

Ready to power up your career and the world? Apply now and join our movement at Spark!