Finance Specialist (M/F/D)

Clariant seeks a Senior Finance Specialist in Pratteln to lead financial reporting, tax management, and internal controls for Swiss entities, reporting to the Finance Lead.

This position acts as a central figure within the local Finance team, serving as the primary deputy to the Finance Lead Switzerland. The role ensures rigorous financial reporting, tax compliance, and internal control standards across all Swiss legal entities while coordinating closely with global business services and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit financial reporting packages that adhere to IFRS and Swiss GAAP standards, including all month-end closing tasks.
• Maintain and oversee Internal Controls over Financial Reporting (ICoFR) to guarantee ongoing accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Perform regular valuations of equity investments according to local GAAP and conduct necessary tax assessments.
• Direct tax management activities for Switzerland, including the supervision of external tax advisors.
• Act as the main point of contact for all accounting and Global Business Services inquiries related to Swiss entities.
• Coordinate external audits for Swiss legal entities, serving as the primary liaison with audit firms.
• Plan and manage activities to align with corporate strategies, local management goals, and fiscal regulations.
• Oversee Swiss Master Data Management, including cost centers, internal orders, and allocation cycles.
• Drive controlling activities in close collaboration with the Finance Lead Switzerland.
• Provide operational continuity by acting as the deputy for the Finance Lead.
• Ensure strict compliance with Swiss and EU VAT regulations and navigate complex international tax frameworks, including OECD standards.
• Collaborate effectively with Global Business Services hubs and cross-functional teams in an intercultural setting.

Requirements

• A degree in Business Administration combined with a professional qualification as a Chartered Accountant, Tax Adviser, or Trustee.
• At least 10 years of experience in statutory accounting and tax legislation.
• Proven ability to close books under both IFRS and local GAAP.
• Deep expertise in Swiss and international tax laws, including OECD/Swiss frameworks and VAT regulations.
• Advanced skills in SAP and Microsoft Excel, with strong IT proficiency.
• Fluency in both German and English, written and spoken.
• Demonstrated capacity to work independently, take ownership, and make decisive judgments.
• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills, with a collaborative and inclusive approach.
• Experience in management representation and engaging with senior stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality results under tight deadlines.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in additional languages beyond German and English.

What the company offers

• Total Target Cash comprising a base salary and an annual bonus.
• A flexible work model allowing up to 40% remote work, subject to agreement with the line manager.
• Access to Clariant's global learning platform and development initiatives, such as Clariant Learning Wednesdays.
• A high-visibility deputy role with direct interaction with senior Finance leadership and global stakeholders.

About the company

Clariant is a global leader in specialty chemicals, dedicated to creating value through innovation, sustainability, and close customer collaboration. Guided by the purpose 'Greater chemistry - between people and planet', the company develops high-performance chemical solutions to foster sustainability across various industries. It believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to its success and strives to cultivate a workplace where all employees feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

• Committed to innovation and sustainability in the specialty chemicals sector.
• Focused on creating high-value solutions that support industry sustainability.
• Values diversity, equity, and inclusion as core to business success.
• Strives to provide a supportive and respectful workplace for all employees.