Director of Accounting
About The Position
The Director of Accounting is a key leader and hands-on operator within the Finance and Operations team, overseeing the Alliance's accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, internal controls, and audit activities. Reporting to the Vice President of Finance and Operations, the Director ensures the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the organization's financial records while supporting strategic decision-making through financial analysis, reporting, and planning. The Director leads core accounting functions, including financial close, general ledger management, financial reporting, grant and restricted fund accounting, audit coordination, and regulatory compliance. The role also drives process and systems improvements, strengthens internal controls, supports organizational risk management, and develops accounting staff to ensure operational excellence and scalability.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, internal controls, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Demonstrated experience leading audits, managing month-end and year-end close processes, and developing accounting policies and procedures.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Nice To Haves
- CPA, MBA, or other relevant advanced degree.
- Experience in nonprofit accounting, including grant accounting, restricted funds, and nonprofit financial reporting.
- Experience with Sage Intacct or similar cloud-based financial management systems.
Responsibilities
- Direct and oversee all accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, general ledger, fixed assets, financial reporting, and the timely completion of monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
- Prepare and review financial statements, reconciliations, and supporting schedules, ensuring compliance with GAAP and the integrity of financial records.
- Oversee revenue recognition, grant accounting, restricted funds, and donor-related financial reporting.
- Partner with the VP of Finance and Operations on budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and strategic decision support.
- Develop and present financial analyses, reports, and recommendations for executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
- Lead the annual financial statement audit, serving as the primary liaison with external auditors and coordinating audit preparation activities.
- Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, regulatory requirements, organizational policies, and required financial filings, including IRS Form 990.
- Maintain and strengthen internal controls to safeguard assets, mitigate risk, and address compliance concerns.
- Evaluate and improve accounting policies, procedures, workflows, and reporting processes to enhance efficiency, scalability, and effectiveness.
- Support optimization and utilization of financial systems, including Sage Intacct and related technology platforms.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to implement best practices and maintain current accounting policies, procedures, and documentation.
- Review contracts, agreements, vendor relationships, and insurance programs to ensure financial compliance, risk management, and oversight of related obligations.
- Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.
- Serve as a trusted financial resource across the organization while promoting a customer-service-oriented approach within the Finance and Operations team.
- Support special projects, strategic initiatives, and cross-functional efforts while maintaining a regular presence in the Washington, DC office to support operational needs and team collaboration.
Benefits
- Healthcare benefits are available for this role.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
