SR MANAGER, ACCOUNTING

El Pollo Loco•Costa Mesa, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

At El Pollo Loco, we are on a mission to be the nation’s leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant. When it comes to our people, we are all about growth. Whether that means specialized training, a clearly laid out career trajectory or collaborating cross-functionally, we are committed to the success of our people the same way we’ve been committed to the success of the El Pollo Loco brand for the last 50 years. In fact, we see you as our secret ingredient. While our chicken is fire, it’s our people who set us ablaze. Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame! If you’re looking for an innovative, winning, and welcoming workplace, then a flamin’ good career in our Restaurant Support Center is right for you. At our Support Center, we believe our best work is done Together, when departments collaborate and everyone is confident in contributing their ideas. This is why we are in the office 3 days per week. Let’s Get Loco! POSITION PURPOSE: The Sr. Accounting Manager manages and coordinates the general accounting activities including Treasury, Accounts Receivable, Month-End closing and reconciliation, lender compliance, systems automation, process improvement, and special projects. Supports controller in quarterly review and annual audit processes.

Requirements

BS in Accounting, CPA certification is a plus
Multi-unit/state restaurant or retail experience a plus
Knowledge of Lawson general ledger, accounts receivable and accounts payable software applications
Track record of success in leading, managing, coaching and developing high performance teams.
3 years supervisory experience preferred.
Excellent analytical skills with ability to communicate results both verbally and in writing.
Excellent customer service skills.
Good at planning and organizing tasks and workflow.
Leadership and coaching skills
CPA certification a plus
Experience with successfully recruiting, building, and developing a team (based on current and future needs).
Confidence in execution of strategic initiatives.
Must be decisive and able to make fact-based decisions.
Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset and skills; meticulous attention to detail
Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external business partners.
Ability to prioritize and plan work assignments and work under pressure of frequent and tight deadlines.
Ability to read, write, and interpret complex reports, documents, and correspondence.
High level of proficiency with technology including Microsoft Office Suite applications, customized database applications, and internet research tools.
Adept at managing and prioritizing competing time sensitive requests while working well in a team atmosphere that may be under pressure.
Ability to exercise independent judgment on matters of significance to the company.

Nice To Haves

CPA certification is a plus
Multi-unit/state restaurant or retail experience a plus

Responsibilities

Supports the Controller in the overall function of the Accounting Department.
Reviews and ensures timely and accurate recording of the company’s sales and expenses
Supervises staff members ensuring timely and accurate account reconciliations
Supervises all administrative efforts associated with the recording of sales, cash, accounts receivable, gift cards, sales tax and other general accounts in the general ledger
Timely billing and reconciliation of all franchise and out of chain stores
Performs detail analysis for closed store reserves
Participates in the month-end closing and financial reporting process including accruals, account analysis and reconciliation
Prepares and reviews detailed schedules for quarterly reviews and annual audit
Reviews and supports sales tax returns process for all required states
Provides analytical support for cash flow projections, capital budgeting, and other special projects as needed
Benchmarks other companies/industries for ways to improve processes
Other activities, duties or responsibilities that are assigned by your supervisor.