Technical Director, Accounting

Nationwide•Columbus, OH

8d•$138,000 - $206,000•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Technical Director, you'll develop accounting policies, practices and standards to meet regulatory and management requirements. We'll count on you to provide accounting consultation, assistance and service to leadership and other internal customers. In addition, you'll have opportunities to serve as a liaison to external peer/industry groups as well as the external auditors. This role supports new Specialty Finance product lines and requires a technical expert in accounting guidance to determine accounting for complex products while meeting business needs. The role involves conducting complex analyses adhering to accounting standards, making assumptions, recognizing considerations, and developing recommendations. The individual will be accountable for resolving unreasonable results or non-optimal solutions using experience and professional judgment. This position will also review, advise, counsel, and actively participate in new systems developments and other systems-related matters to ensure the accuracy of all financial data, including advising on data needs for Specialty Finance financial reporting and bordereaux. It also assists in the development and implementation of financial reporting controls related to Specialty Finance, including establishing a strong control environment with adequate governance and oversight.

Requirements

Undergraduate studies in accounting or finance.
Eight years of accounting experience in insurance or financial services industry.
At least four years of management experience.
GAAP and/or STAT accounting principles.
Sophisticated verbal and written communication skills for contact with all levels of associates including business unit leadership, external parties such as public accountants, state examiners, industry professionals and other clients.
Ability to analyze and tackle accounting problems, interpret financial documents and data, analyze legal requirements, examine and monitor accounting cycles and flows, and review general ledger entries and audit work papers and schedules.
Ability to advise associates in all aspects of assigned accounting record maintenance, financial statement preparation and special projects.
Must reside within 35 miles of 1 Nationwide Plaza.
Valid credit and/or background check will be required.

Nice To Haves

Post graduate level studies desirable.
CPA designation is desired.
Big Four public accounting experience is desired.

Responsibilities

Directs/performs the technical accounting research which is used by others within Controllership for the preparation, analysis and required filing of all relative financial statements and related data and exhibits.
Performs the assessment, education and implementation of new GAAP and STAT accounting changes.
Interacts with various finance functions as a representative of the AP&R group.
Connects with peers through participation in industry trade groups.
Work collaboratively with external auditors and other outside sources to ensure accounting compliance with regulators, statutory, GAAP and SEC requirements where applicable.
Provides advice, counsel and assistance on accounting policies and practices.
Responds to applicable inquiries from state insurance departments, internal and external auditors and other regulatory agencies.
Manages special projects/assignments as advised by senior management.
Represents officer/executive as assigned.
May attend trade association meetings.
Provides regular, formal updates/presentations to interested/impacted staff within the company.
May perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

medical/dental/vision
life insurance
short and long term disability coverage
18 days paid time off each full calendar year pro-rated quarterly based on hire date
nine paid holidays
8 hours of Lifetime paid time off
8 hours of Unity Day paid time off
401(k) with company match
company-paid pension plan
business casual attire