Staff Accountant- Accounting

Southern States Cooperative•Richmond, VA

About The Position

This role is a member of the Accounting Shared Services team primarily responsible for cooperative equity accounting and vendor management within Accounts Payable. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate records related to patronage-based equity, including stock issuance, patronage refunds, revolvements and redemptions for Southern States as well as approximately twenty-five member cooperatives. This role is also responsible for vendor administration, ensuring vendor data integrity and strong internal controls.

Requirements

Requires bachelor's degree in accounting or related field
1-2 years of accounting experience preferred
Working knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP)
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Effective analytical, problem solving and communication skills
Proficient with Microsoft Excel and various accounting systems
Ability to manage confidential financial and member information

Responsibilities

Maintains and reconciles member equity accounts, including stock and patronage allocations.
Supports the calculation and recording of patronage refunds (cash and equity allocations).
Prepare and process annual dividend payments, patronage refunds, and equity revolvements in accordance with cooperative bylaws and Company policies and procedures.
Processes membership redemptions and maintains appropriate documentation ensuring transactions are recorded accurately and in accordance with cooperative policies.
Serves as a point of contact for patrons and member cooperatives regarding inquiries regarding equity accounts and balances.
Manages vendor setup and maintenance, including creating and updating vendor records in the accounting system
Obtains and maintains required tax documentation and banking information for vendors.
Prepares journal entries related to member equity activity and accounts payable as needed.
Prepares account reconciliations as assigned.
Assists with forfeiture and escheatment processes for stock records and accounts payable.
Supports the federal tax reporting requirements for stock records and accounts payable, including 1099-DIV, 1099-PATR, 1099-MISC, and 1099-NEC, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.
Assists with month-end and year-end close processes.
Supports financial, bank, and other external audits as needed.