Senior Accounting Manager

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEMORIAL•Lawrence, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Accounting Manager plays a critical leadership role in the financial operations of KU Memorial Unions. The position oversees general accounting functions, financial reporting, account reconciliations, compliance efforts, and accounting staff, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial information while supporting strategic decision-making across the organization. The role calls for a detail-oriented accounting professional with strong analytical skills, a commitment to continuous improvement, and the ability to lead and support a team in a collaborative environment. The position is in the Business Office and reports to the Director of Finance/CFO. The anticipated starting pay is $85,000 annually; the final rate depends on qualifications, experience, education, and years in the job or industry. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 40 hours per week. Days and hours may vary based on position needs, and early mornings, evenings, and weekends may be required. The role also supports KU Memorial Unions policies, mission, core values, initiatives, and team principles, and represents the organization and University professionally. The work requires extended computer use, effective communication in person, by phone, and electronically, and occasional lifting or carrying office materials up to 10 pounds.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Five or more years of professional accounting experience.
Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and account reconciliation processes.
Experience with accounting software and financial management systems.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.
Experience supervising, coaching, or leading staff.

Nice To Haves

CPA or other relevant professional certification.
Experience with NetSuite or a comparable ERP system.
Experience in higher education or a complex, multi-departmental organization.
Proven success leading accounting teams and implementing process improvements.

Responsibilities

Manage daily accounting operations, including general ledger activities, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, and related financial processes.
Coordinate month-end and year-end close activities, including journal entries and accruals.
Prepare and review account reconciliations for accuracy and completeness.
Prepare and analyze financial reports and monthly financial summaries for leadership.
Ensure compliance with GAAP, organizational policies, and regulatory requirements.
Coordinate documentation and schedules for annual audits and tax preparation.
Monitor internal controls and recommend improvements to accounting policies and procedures.
Supervise, coach, train, and support accounting staff.
Provide financial guidance to departments and resolve accounting-related questions.
Collaborate with stakeholders to improve financial processes, reporting capabilities, and operational efficiencies.
Support the effective use of financial management systems and accounting software.
Maintain data integrity and identify opportunities to automate and improve accounting processes.
Assist with annual budget development and related financial planning activities.
Adhere to University and KU Memorial Unions policies and procedures and support organizational initiatives and mission.
Follow the 7 Team Principles and foster a respectful, productive, and solution-oriented work environment.
Represent KU Memorial Unions and the University professionally in campus and community interactions.