Accounting Associate

Consumer Link Inc•Durham, NC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Link Group, an employee-owned top 25 Research and Analytics firm, is searching for an Accounting Associate based in our Durham, NC office. We conduct qualitative and quantitative custom marketing research studies (i.e., focus groups, online surveys, ethnography, etc.) for Fortune 500 companies to help them identify marketing opportunities and solutions. We are a thriving 115-person employee-owned marketing research firm looking for an ambitious, detail-oriented Accounting Associate to join our close-knit finance team. This role extends beyond analytics and reporting and is positioned as a strategic growth-track opportunity. This position will initially support our Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable functions. As your proficiency in our systems and processes develops, you will have the opportunity to expand into higher-level general ledger responsibilities and broader accounting functions. This position is a hybrid role based in our Durham office (three days per week in office, with the remaining two days either working from home or in office as desired). This role will receive direct mentorship from our CFO and Accounting Director who are also located in the Durham office.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in accounting; bachelor’s degree preferred
At least 2 years of experience in accounting, specifically with a professional services firm (e.g., consulting, engineering, legal, or marketing)
Highly proficient in Excel; experience QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise preferred
Working Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
Strong writing, communication, organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills
Highly organized, responsible, reliable, and detail-oriented
Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information
Attention to detail, internal motivation, and proactivity are important attributes for success
A willingness to learn
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
Must be able to access and navigate each office at the company's facilities.

Nice To Haves

A "Growth" Mindset: You are motivated to understand the broader business impact behind the numbers. You demonstrate curiosity, initiative, and a desire for continued professional growth with an interest to potentially lead a department one day. You are eager to collaborate cross functionally and gain a well-rounded understanding of the business.
Professional Services Experience: You understand how project-based accounting operates and the connection to company timelines.
Technical Skills: You are highly proficient with Excel and comfortable learning new accounting software and technologies. Experience with Quickbooks Desktop Enterprise preferred.
Communication Skills: You can explain financial concepts and discrepancies cross functionally with clarity and professionalism. Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication with vendors and team members, in a concise and professional manner.

Responsibilities

Assist the AR Director with client onboarding, invoicing, and collections.
Work alongside our AP Associate and Accounting Director to learn the nuances of vendor management and expense tracking.
Communicate with our project teams and vendors on invoice and expense discrepancies.
Assist in month-end and year-end closing processes, including bank and general ledger reconciliations and related journal entries.
Help prepare internal reports that provide insights into project profitability and internal initiative budget tracking.
Identify ways to streamline current accounting workflows.
Guide employees with invoice and expense submission questions.
Maintain the confidentiality of financial information of the company.
Perform other duties as assigned.