Accounting Lead

Lightspark•Culver City, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Lightspark is building the open payment protocol for the Internet making money move like data: instantly, globally, and without friction. With enterprise tools like Grid, Node, and Spark, businesses can send and receive money instantly, securely, and at a fraction of the cost, anytime, anywhere. Lightspark is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, but serves the world. Lightspark is seeking a builder with enthusiasm to lead Lightspark's Accounting team. This role reports directly to our VP, Finance, and you will play a critical role in establishing the financial infrastructure, implementing best practices, and ensuring a seamless financial statement close process. A deep knowledge of US GAAP and a proven ability to apply accounting principles to both existing operations and new ventures will be essential to success in this role. This opportunity is ideal for someone with boundless optimism, and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset that can work autonomously in ambiguous situations. We value adaptability, ownership, and a “can-do” attitude. You should be eager to tackle new challenges, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and be self-sufficient in driving results. This position is based onsite at our offices in Los Angeles.

Requirements

7+ years of progressive experience in public accounting (Big 4 preferred) and corporate accounting/controllership, ideally in fintech, payments, financial services, or crypto.
Strong technical accounting foundation, particularly in revenue recognition (ASC 606).
Experience with crypto asset accounting - both operational and technical accounting aspects essential.
Proven experience leading and managing external partners in accounting, audit, and financial operations.
Strong experience with ERP systems and accounting automation tools.
Exceptional ability to translate complex accounting concepts into clear, actionable insights for both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, balancing multiple priorities while driving process improvements.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence at all levels.

Responsibilities

Lead and own the monthly financial statement close process, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with US GAAP
Prepare technical accounting memos for new and complex transactions, particularly in revenue recognition, ensuring compliance with contractual, regulatory and industry standards.
Oversee the payroll team to ensure timely, accurate, and complete filings
Identify, develop, document, and implement key accounting policies, internal controls, and best practices to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.
Interpret and apply new accounting standards, policy changes, and operationalize accounting treatment for new or evolving products and services.
Own the external audit process, serving as the primary liaison with auditors to resolve accounting matters efficiently.
Prepare senior management- level financial reporting summaries and presentations.
Manage the transition of the accounting function from external to in-house operations, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.
Collaborate closely with Product, Legal, Finance, and other stakeholders to provide financial insights and ensure accounting considerations are integrated into business decisions.
Provide clear, data-driven responses to financial inquiries from internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment and transparency.
Explore the use of AI-enabled workflows, reporting, and tools to improve efficiency and ensure complete and accurate reporting.
Leverage AI/ML to build scalable playbooks to build out automations, including the exploration of how AI agents, can be implemented.
Work cross-functionally to define and implement system requirements that support financial and accounting operations.