Accounting Operations Manager

The Hotchkiss School • Lakeville, CT

3h • Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Director of Finance/Controller, the Accounting Operations Manager is a hands-on finance professional who brings energy, initiative, and innovation to a complex boarding school environment. This role oversees the day-to-day accounting operations, ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial records, and supports financial sustainability. The Accounting Operations Manager will play a key role in managing the general ledger, supervising/supporting accounting staff, contributing to audits and compliance, and leading continual improvement of systems and processes, including budget management and financial reporting. What sets this role apart is the opportunity to develop close relationships with stakeholders across campus and manage projects that meet our ever-evolving School needs. We are looking for someone with a strong blend of technical accounting experience and a collaborative, service-oriented mindset who excels at creative problem solving and demonstrates strong learning acuity. Serving as a resource to departments across campus, this individual partners closely with budget holders to provide insight, tools, and guidance that promote sound financial decision-making and stewardship. The ideal candidate has experience in a senior accounting role, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit, excels in both operational execution and process design, and is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all interactions with the Business Office.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting is highly preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in an independent school environment and/or in non-profit accounting.
• Prior supervisory experience with a demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team.
• Strong working knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.
• Impeccable attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders to build rapport and trust.
• Demonstrated ability to think analytically and strategically, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously, prioritizing appropriately.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAGE Intacct, Great Plains, or similar), Excel, and reporting tools.
• Commitment to the values of a boarding school environment, including discretion, collaboration, and service orientation.

Responsibilities

• General Ledger Management : Maintenance and ownership of the accuracy of the general ledger and month-end, quarter, and year-end close processes. Review and manage journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance investigations. Set up and manage GL accounts, funds, projects, and events as needed.
• Financial Operations & Treasury Support : Ownership of cash flow forecasting and daily treasury operations. Approve wire transfers, ACH transactions, and payment templates. Provide oversight and support for purchasing and inventory processes in collaboration with relevant departments.
• Financial Audit and Form 990 Preparation Support : Assist in coordinating and preparing for the annual audit, ensuring timely completion of all audit schedules and supporting documentation. Assist with IRS Form 990 preparation, state filings, and other compliance reporting. Help ensure strong internal controls are in place and functioning effectively.
• Gift and Fund Management: Support monthly reconciliation of charitable giving gifts, monitor the endowment tracking system (e.g., Fundriver), and manage the due to/from activity between operating cash and endowment. Oversee the quarterly reconciliations of Charitable Remainder Trusts, Pooled Investment Funds.
• Programmatic Support: Coordinate and work with staff accountants regarding auxiliary programs, student travel activities, and employee and student credit/debit card transactions.
• Process Improvement and System Integrations : Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and support the implementation of system enhancements. Support the implementation of new financial technologies and reporting tools. Ensure accuracy between financial systems, such as the general ledger, credit cards, employee reimbursements, and procurement.
• Internal Policies and Compliance: Contribute to the creation and refinement of internal policies and procedures. Provide training and guidance to ensure school-wide compliance.
• Team Supervision and Development: Supervise and support the 5-member accounting and purchasing team. Provide training, performance feedback, and mentorship to support professional growth. Foster a collaborative and accountable culture within the business office.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Finance/Controller.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager