Accounting Manager

SVN•Chattanooga, TN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing the accounting & bookkeeping operations related to the commercial and mulitfamily properties managed by SVN | Second Story Real Estate Management. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of all property financial reporting, owner statements, reconciliations, budgeting, and compliance activities. The Accounting Manager serves as a key partner to property managers, property owners, and company leadership by providing financial insight, maintaining strong internal controls, and leading the property accounting function.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience.
Prior supervisory or management experience.
Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and account reconciliation processes.
Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
Experience in property management, real estate, or multifamily/commercial real estate accounting.
Experience with AppFolio or similar property management/accounting software.
Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and owner reporting.

Responsibilities

Oversee the day-to-day property accounting function and ensure the department operates efficiently and accurately.
Provide guidance, training, and support to accounting team members.
Build and maintain strong working relationships across departments, fostering collaboration and alignment on financial objectives and business priorities.
Communicate effectively with a wide range of personalities, leadership styles, and external partners, adapting approaches as needed to drive understanding and results.
Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure consistency and compliance.
Oversee the financial management of client-owned assets under management.
Manage the month-end close process for all managed properties.
Build trusted, long-term relationships with property owners by delivering consistent, transparent, and proactive financial communication.
Navigate varying owner communication styles and expectations with professionalism, adaptability, and strong interpersonal judgment.
Review, approve, and ensure timely delivery of monthly Property Owner Financial Statements and reporting packages.
Partner with Property Managers to investigate and resolve accounting discrepancies and financial reporting issues.
Partner with Property Managers to proactively anticipate owner questions and needs, ensuring responsiveness, clarity, and a high standard of customer service in all communications.
Translate complex financial concepts into practical insights for both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
Ensure accurate recording of financial transactions and proper application of accounting principles.
Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and general ledger activity.
Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
Analyze financial performance and provide recommendations to leadership, Property Managers, and Property Owners.
Assist in developing financial forecasts and support corporate budgeting initiatives.
Provide supplemental reporting and financial analysis as requested by leadership or property owners.
Collaborate with Property Managers in the development and monitoring of annual property operating budgets.
Monitor budget-to-actual performance and identify opportunities for improved financial outcomes.
Assist leadership with financial planning and forecasting efforts related to managed assets.
Ensure compliance with GAAP, company policies, and applicable regulations.
Coordinate and facilitate internal and external audits.
Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation.
Monitor and strengthen internal controls to mitigate risk and ensure financial integrity.
Develop and maintain strong working relationships with Property Managers, Property Owners, banking partners, vendors, and internal departments.
Serve as a trusted financial resource and advisor for operational teams.
Collaborate closely with Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable personnel to ensure accurate and timely bookkeeping and cash management.