TOPIC:
What do we think about our workplace?
Hear some voices from our accounting team talk about their experience working at ZenGroup.
ZenGroup has been busy preparing for an IPO (initial public offering) taking our business global. We asked the members of ZenGroup’s Accounting Team (both accounting & finance team members), who serve as the backbone of the company, about the appeal of their work and the team atmosphere! While accounting often has an image of being a “stiff” job, ZenGroup’s team seems to have a slightly different vibe.
Can you describe your role and duties?
Yang: As the Accounting Division Manager, I am involved in a wide range of areas managing both the Accounting and Finance teams. I handle daily operations to management reporting and project promotion. More specifically, I handle negotiations with financial institutions, establish accounting standards for our scheduled IPO, and advance internal control projects in cooperation with auditing firms.
Sakamoto: I mainly handle confirmation of customer deposits, payment assistance for proxy purchases, scheduling of monthly payments, and payroll calculation. Within the Accounting Team, we rotate tasks regularly to prevent operations from becoming dependent on specific team members, so all team members get to handle a lot of different tasks.
Uesugi: I handle daily journal entries, account receivables and payables, and payments to overseas influencers who promote services like ZenMarket. I try to support the business internally and externally by maintaining accurate and smooth financial flows, allowing the business to move smoothly.
At ZenGroup there is an “Accounting Team” and a “Finance Team.” What are the differences?
Yang: The Accounting Division consists of two teams: the “Accounting Team,” responsible for financial accounting, and the “Finance Team,” responsible for managerial accounting. The Accounting Team is responsible for accurately recording the company’s figures and managing money through tasks like closing accounts, tax returns, and payroll. On the other hand, the Finance Team supports management decisions by creating profit/loss, balance sheet, and cash flow statements, so this team is a bit more involved with various management analyses, also with a focus on internal KPIs.
Sakamoto: To explain in simple words, the Accounting Team handles daily recording, and the Finance Team uses those records to think about management strategies.
Uesugi: The Accounting Team builds the “foundation” for operations to run smoothly, and the Finance Team connects those numbers to “future” plans and decisions. By working together, both teams support company management and growth.
Are there any unique features of ZenGroup’s accounting or differences compared to other companies?
Yang: Since our business model is primarily an IT service rather than a manufacturer, there are different accounting points used compared to things like cost accounting in manufacturing. Also, a key feature is that we don’t just follow a set “correct answer,” but flexibly change accounting treatments and operations to match business changes. We are developing diverse business models such as proxy purchasing, subscription services, and overseas expansion support. I think the environment where you can learn different revenue recognition and accounting points for each is an appeal not found in other companies.
Uesugi: The fact that we are directly involved in a global cross-border EC business. Dealing with cross-border transactions on a daily basis, such as payments to overseas users and influencers, is something specific to ZenGroup. As a venture company, there are also a lot of changes, so the ability to respond flexibly is required.
Sakamoto: Since half of our employees are from overseas, sometimes the “traditional norms” at Japanese companies don’t apply. While it can be challenging, it’s fun to be exposed to fresh ideas and to strategize on how to make operations proceed smoothly.
What’s the atmosphere of the team like?
Sakamoto: Many team members are kind, making it an easy atmosphere to ask questions or make suggestions. Even when I don’t understand a task and ask multiple times, no one has ever made a sour face. Also, our team leader aims for 100% paid leave usage, so members can easily take time off!
Yang: I think it’s a bright, calm and safe environment to work in. We don’t strictly blame someone for mistakes; instead, we encourage the mindset of learning from mistakes and process improvement.
Uesugi: I think there is a sense of unity between us all. While calm, it’s easy to reach out and talk to a team member. We usually look out for each other and naturally follow up with one another when things get busy.
ZenGroup’s preparing for an IPO. What phase are you currently in?
Yang: We are currently in what is called “Phase 3.” Until now, we have been examining appropriate accounting treatments in cooperation with auditing firms, but moving forward, we are entering the stage of incorporating those ideal accounting policies into actual business processes. We are in the midst of developing systems while coordinating with the IT department and others.
Uesugi: There are still many more challenges to tackle ahead, but that also means we are in a stage where we can organize systems and workflows from scratch and create a better form. Being able to feel the company’s growth and improvements is a great feeling.
Any fun or unforgettable memories within the team to share?
Yang: We a New Year’s party and Hanami (cherry blossom viewing party) with the Accounting Division members and even the quiet members opened up. After those events, I remember how the distance between the team shrank. I also recall a time when we set a high goal for the early closing of accounts. All members seriously worked on operational improvements, and when we achieved the goal, you could feel the unity and satisfaction between us all.
Uesugi: I clearly remember the welcome lunch held for me after joining ZenGroup. I had the opportunity to speak directly with the CEO, who is from Ukraine, and was surprised to hear that he used to play Japanese Sengoku (Warring States) simulation games during his student days. It reminded me that Japanese culture and history have long attracted attention overseas, and I felt the unique characteristics of the leaders of ZenGroup.
Any advice for future ZenGroup recruits?
Sakamoto: If you like being creative and want to take on new challenges, please come work with us! ZenGroup’s a fun company where you can meet new people from different backgrounds and various cultures. Our team is supportive and will help wherever possible, so please don’t hesitate to work with us!
Uesugi: Although we are a global business, the internal atmosphere is very flat making it easy to communicate. If you don’t understand something, you can casually consult others. If there’s anyone out there who values teamwork, or wants to challenge new things in a positive environment, I think ZenGroup would be a good match.
Yang: ZenGroup is in a major growth phase as a business and an organization. The environment allows you to seize various opportunities depending on your effort. Rather than waiting to be given things by those around you, I think ZenGroup can be a very compatible workplace for those who actively learn, focus on career development, and want to build their own career path.
