Senior Accountant and Finance Manager

Huntsville Botanical Garden•Huntsville, AL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Accountant and Finance Manager supports the financial operations of the Garden and serves as the primary accounting lead under the direction of the Vice President of Finance & Operations / CFO. This position is responsible for preparing and maintaining financial records to track the organization’s assets, liabilities, profit and loss, tax liabilities and other related financial activities. Overseeing day-to-day accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintaining compliance with GAAP, supporting the annual audit process, assisting with budgeting activities, and supervising accounting staff. The role focuses on operational accounting leadership, internal controls, and efficient financial processes while providing stability and continuity within the finance department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting and a minimum of 5 years of professional accounting experience is required.
Understanding of and the ability to adhere to generally accepted accounting principles.
Technology savvy with high comfort level utilizing the Microsoft Office suite of products, particularly Excel and accounting software.
Possessing an interest and appreciation for the mission of the Huntsville Botanical Garden and inherent alignment with the Garden’s Core Values.
Ability to ensure accuracy in financial statements and reports, aligning with the organization's core value of exemplifying expertise.
Highly analytical and organized, accountants should be adept at problem-solving, enabling sound decision-making and supporting both strategic and tactical planning.
Familiarity with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, or Excel) and a strong understanding of accounting principles (GAAP or IFRS) are essential.
Strong organizational abilities are needed to manage multiple types of tasks and deadlines effectively.
Ability to convey financial information clearly to auditor, vendors, stakeholders, or team members.
The ability to adapt to new regulations, technologies, and practices within the evolving accounting field.
Capable of providing leadership through initiative and by example, demonstrating a commitment to the organization's mission.
A demonstrated ability to set and achieve personal goals while supporting the success of their team is essential.

Nice To Haves

Previous supervisory experience and professional work in a non-profit environment.
Experience with grant expense management and reporting.
Prior use of QuickBooks, Square, Blackbaud/Altru and/or similar applications.
CPA certification.

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate the monthly close process, including journal entries, accruals, sales tax and account reconciliations
Review and approve cash disbursements to ensure proper authorization and posting.
Review, verify and reconcile bank deposits/statements and general ledger activity for accuracy and completeness
Prepare balance sheet reconciliations and maintain supporting schedules
Ensure timely processing and recording of financial transactions
Manages year-end close activities
Prepare financial and management reporting for leadership review
Support compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and organizational accounting policies
Assist with variance analysis and reporting needs (financial & management)
Maintain documentation supporting accounting processes and internal controls
Assist with the annual operating budget process and departmental budget preparation
Support budget tracking and monitoring throughout the fiscal year
Prepare budget-to-actual reports and assist with variance analysis
Provide financial information and reporting support to department leaders as needed
Coordinate preparation of audit schedules and supporting documentation
Serve as a primary contact for external auditors during fieldwork
Assist in implementing audit recommendations and strengthening financial controls
Support preparation for financial reviews and compliance requests
Supervise assigned accounting staff, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and related accounting functions
Provide guidance, prioritization, training, and daily oversight to finance staff
Promote cross-training and operational consistency within the department
Help maintain a collaborative and customer-service-oriented finance culture
Assist with implementation and consistent application of accounting policies and procedures.
Stays abreast of changing regulatory considerations to maintain organizational financial compliance.
Identify opportunities to improve workflows, efficiency, and accuracy
Support financial system improvements and reporting enhancements
Maintain organized accounting records and documentation standards and perform other duties as assigned