Job Summary
The Accounting Manager is responsible for the day to day operations of the Finance Department, manages, supervises and coordinates the activities and operations of the general ledger, financial accounting, accounts payable, budget, monthly and yearly financial close, preparation of the annual budget and financial statements to include the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). This position will maintain an effective accounting system to capture data regarding economic activities of the City and provides technical accounting guidance and direction to subordinates. Provides internal and external customer service in a timely, effective and professional manner.
Examples of Duties
- Assumes management responsibility for assigned services and activities of the Finance Department including but not limited to accounts payable, budget, various general ledger and subsidiary ledger reconciliations.
- Ensures that accounting activities are conducted and reported in accordance with GAAP, GASB and federal requirements.
- Manages month-end and year-end financial system close processes including financial statement monthly reconciliations.
- Responsible for developing, organizing, coordinating and preparing the City’s annual budget; participates in the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; monitors and approves expenditures.
- Prepares the Budget to a standard that obtains the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from GFOA.
- Responsible for developing, organizing, coordinating the City’s annual audit ACFR in compliance with GASB, GAAP, Federal and GFOA requirements including providing assistance to and consults with external auditors; prepares audit work papers; prepares and reviews final documents.
- Prepares the ACFR to a standard that obtains the Certificate of Achievement in Excellence in Financial Reporting from GFOA.
- Coordinates the city’s monthly, quarterly, yearly filings and regulatory reporting.
- Evaluates and approves all payment authorization and transfer of funds requests.
- Researches and analyzes financial and operating data to promote efficient operations of the City.
- Reviews and approves monthly financial statements to departments.
- Authorizes and approves all journal entries into the general ledger.
- Prepares budget reports, reviews trial balances and general ledger activity, including any adjustments to journal entries.
- Ensures compliance with financial reporting requirements of external Federal and State agencies (i.e state sales taxes, etc.)
- Provides technical and leadership training to staff and resolves personnel issues.
- Responsible for implementing and maintaining financial software and ledgers to accurately and timely track financial transactions of the City including but not limited to all receipts, expenditures and allocations.
- Assists in the interpretation of City policies, department specific guidelines/policies and/or ordinances for internal and external customers.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required.
Typical Qualifications
- Knowledge of General Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) related to municipal finance administration and program development.
- Knowledge of methods for the preparation and development of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (CAFR).
- Knowledge of technical accounting, financial reporting and complex general ledger systems.
- Knowledge of Federal, State and Local financial policies, law and regulations including tax laws.
- Skill in planning, developing and implementing departmental procedures and objectives.
- Skill in effectively supervising and delegating duties to assigned staff.
- Possess excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to communicate and work cooperatively with all levels and types of personnel.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field,
- And five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in Governmental Accounting with at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity. Corporate experience may substitute for Governmental Accounting if the experience includes preparing corporate wide financial statements.
- A Master of Accountancy or a Masters of Business Administration may substitute for one year of professional experience.
