Inventory Accounting & Control Lead, EMEA
Ref #: W161609
Department: Finance
City: Watford
State/Province: Hertfordshire
Location: United Kingdom
Company Description: Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing, and distribution of premium lifestyle products across apparel, accessories, home, fragrances, and hospitality. With over 50 years of history, our brands include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children, Chaps, among others. We are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values talent, education, communication, and celebration.
Position Overview: The Lead (Director) of Inventory Accounting & Inventory Control, EMEA, reports to the Head of RTR, EMEA. This role manages accounting and internal controls for Sales, COGS, and Inventory in the region. You will collaborate with FP&A, GL, Inventory Management, and Retail & Wholesale Planning teams, engaging with regional and corporate leadership. Responsibilities include managing audits, US GAAP monthly closes, forecast inputs, statutory reporting, and SOX controls.
* Lead the Inventory Accounting & Control team of 13 members.
* Support the Head of RTR, EMEA, as a key member of the Finance leadership team in Watford.
* Motivate, coach, and develop the team; set targets and recruit talent.
* Supervise monthly closing activities and internal controls.
* Coordinate COGS forecast inputs and reporting schedules.
* Partner with various teams to manage inventory reserves and forecasts.
* Oversee Retail Inventory Control, including stock takes and discrepancy resolution.
* Serve as the primary contact for audits related to US GAAP, statutory, and SOX compliance.
* Own SOX processes for inventory controls, ensuring compliance and documentation.
* Collaborate with the General Ledger team on US GAAP adjustments and statutory financial statements.
* Manage ad-hoc projects, process improvements, and support new IT solutions.
Experience, Skills & Knowledge:
* Degree in Accounting or Finance.
* Proven experience in audit and accounting within a multinational environment.
* Leadership experience managing teams.
* Knowledge of internal controls, US GAAP.
* Retail or multi-unit industry experience is a plus.
* Proficiency in Excel; SAP experience is advantageous.
* Strong understanding of inventory sub-ledger and general ledger systems.
* Experience preparing and auditing statutory financial statements.
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