Financial Accountant - French Speaking

About the Position

Financial Accountant - French Speaking

We are seeking a highly motivated Financial Accountant to support the accounting, statutory compliance, and financial reporting activities for Cognizant's legal entities in France and Tunisia.

Based in Budapest, you will play a key role in supporting month-end close activities, statutory compliance requirements, financial reconciliations, and reporting processes. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to build expertise in international accounting within a global organisation.

Responsibilities

As a Financial Accountant, you will:

• Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities for French and Tunisian entities.
• Prepare journal entries, prepayments, payroll accounting entries, and accrual schedules.
• Perform balance sheet reconciliations and maintain supporting documentation.
• Assist with variance analysis across profit and loss and balance sheet accounts.
• Support French statutory accounting requirements and local compliance obligations.
• Prepare and coordinate data required for French VAT filings.
• Maintain accounting records and support FEC (Fichier des Écritures Comptables) readiness.
• Partner with Accounts Payable, operational finance teams, and shared service functions.
• Assist with external audits, tax reviews, and statutory reporting requirements.
• Contribute to process improvements and ad hoc finance projects.

Requirements

Essential

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• 3-5 years of accounting experience within a multinational organisation or shared services environment.
• Fluent in French
• Experience supporting French legal entities.
• Working knowledge of:
  • French GAAP / PCG (Plan Comptable Général)
  • VAT processes
  • Financial close activities
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and financial analysis.
• Fluent English communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

Preferred

• Experience working within dual-GAAP environments (French GAAP and US GAAP and/or IFRS).
• Experience with enterprise finance systems such as SAP, PeopleSoft, Oracle, or Hyperion.
• French language skills are highly advantageous.

What Will Help You Succeed

• Strong organisational and prioritisation skills.
• A proactive and collaborative approach.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced international environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• A continuous improvement mindset.

About the Company

Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) is a builder of AI solutions and a provider of technology services. We bridge the gap between AI investments and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep knowledge of sectors, processes, and engineering enables us to anchor the unique context of an organization in technological systems. These systems enhance human potential, deliver tangible results, and give global enterprises an edge in a rapidly changing world. Discover more at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

Additional Employment Information

The information about the compensation is accurate as of the date of this job posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable laws.

Applicants can expect to attend interviews, either in person or via video call. Candidates may also be asked to present a valid government-issued identification (such as an ID card or passport) during each interview.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be judged based on race, color, gender, religion, belief, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Benefits That Help You Thrive and Grow

Our benefits program is designed with you in mind - so you can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced, and healthy life.

Financial Health

We regularly assess market data to ensure that the compensation aligns with the value you bring. Your benefits go beyond just salary and may include pension plans, financial education, and more.

Physical and Mental Health

We empower you to prioritize your well-being through paid leave, flexible working hours where possible, health insurance, counseling, our Mental Health Allyship program, and more.

Your Career, Your Way

With over 350,000 roles at Cognizant, you have the opportunity to explore new technologies, sectors, and locations - and build the skills you need to advance your career.

Real-World Impact

Think of the biggest brands you trust. Chances are, they rely on us to power their business. Here, you turn bold ideas into solutions that improve lives around the world.

Your Path to Cognizant

Here's what you can expect from our recruitment process. Please note that this may vary by role and location. Check our FAQs for more information.

Step 1: Apply for the Right Role

Find an open position that matches your skills and career goals and show why you are the right fit for the role. If you don't see a suitable position, consider joining our Talent Community.

Step 2: Connect with Your Recruiter

If one of our recruiters sees a good match, they will schedule a brief introductory call to learn more about you and discuss how your experience and skills align with the role.

Step 3: Showcase Your Skills

If you and our team want to continue the process, you will interview with our recruitment team. Some roles may also require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

Step 4: Time for a Decision

Our team will then evaluate each candidate's potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time as we want to find the right match - both for you and for us - but you can expect us to keep you informed.

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