THE OPPORTUNITY

• Are you a successful accounting leader with experience in professional services?
• Do you enjoy developing, improving, and leading a team while improving processes, and systems?
• Are you a performance-based leader and business partner accustomed to setting and meeting goals for the organization and your team?

ABOUT THE FIRM

GBQ has been an IPA top 100 tax, accounting, and consulting firm for more than 70 years. They are driven by the outcomes they know can change the lives of those they work with and for. They have learned that this is what matters most to their stakeholders, along with a clear purpose: to empower the growth of their people, communities, and their clients’ businesses. It is why they exist – to drive and inspire people, clients, and community every day.

This role is on site at the firm’s office in Columbus, Ohio.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Director of Accounting is responsible for planning, overseeing and directing firm accounting operations including financial reporting, asset management, accounts payable, and payroll. Additionally, the Director of Accounting is responsible for the monitoring of internal controls. Key responsibilities include the following:

Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations

• Establish and maintain the firm’s accounting principles, practices and procedures.
• Partner closely with the Director of Finance to support firm-wide financial strategy, planning, and growth initiatives.
• Protect assets by establishing, monitoring and enforcing internal controls and recommending process improvements as needed.
• Oversee daily cash activities including managing cash position and reconciliations. Manage bank account balances and ensure sufficient funds are available to meet ongoing operational and capital investment requirements. Work with outside lenders, as needed.
• Oversee accounts payable activities ensuring adequate review and oversight of outgoing payments.
• Support strategic initiatives such as new service offerings, geographic expansion, acquisitions, and other investments.
• Oversee the completion of month-end and year-end close processes. Oversee the reconciliation of balance sheet accounts and analysis of multi-entity expense accounts monthly. Review calculation of year-end accruals and work with management to ensure complete and accurate information is included in the financials.
• Review and distribute monthly internal financial statements for all legal entities individually and at a consolidated level. Perform variance analysis from budget and historical results.  Distribute financial statements for external use in compliance with contractual obligations.
• Assist the Director of Finance in the completion of the annual budget.  Meet with Service Line leaders to determine strategic objectives and the optimal staffing model to meet agreed to KPIs.  Update throughout the year as needed as assumptions change.
• Meet with Service Line leaders and Internal Department Heads as requested to support growth and provide analysis of service line profitability.
• Update internal planning models as needed to assist with review of current assumptions and compensation planning.
• Manage administration of the firm’s 401(k) plan and ensure the plan is operating according to the plan document. Meet with investment advisors quarterly to review offerings and discuss plan maintenance. Oversee timely completion of the annual 401(k) Audit.
• Monitor payroll processing and provide back-up support as needed.
• Oversee use and functionality of practice management software. Work with software vendors and internal IT to maintain software, implement updates, and resolve issues relating to operational effectiveness.
• Oversee maintenance of data held in practice management software ensuring fields are consistently used and accurate information is entered.
• Maintain firm’s expense reporting policy reviewing at least annually for updates. Development and maintenance of other policies including fixed asset policy, vendor policy and AR policy.

Client Focus

• Provide support to professional staff and respond to requests in a timely manner.
• Demonstrate comprehension of relevant accounting knowledge, technology concepts and other methodologies.
• Demonstrate ability to utilize all applicable department software efficiently.
• Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Brand Culture & Development

• Exemplify brand attributes of the firm.
• Support and ensure adherence to all administrative policies and procedures of the firm.
• Exhibit the ability to work independently and with a team, having confidence in his/her ability to address and resolve conflict with peers, subordinates and firm leaders.
• Enhance firm collaboration through interactions with associates from other departments.
• Consistently seeking feedback from Performance Manager and focus on enhancing and developing professional and technical skills.

IDEAL CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting and CPA required.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP; knowledge of partnership and partnership taxation a plus.
• Experience with preparation and review of financial statements.
• Strong proficiency in the use of technology; experience with Workday products a plus.

KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Strong communicator and relationship builder across all levels.
• Analytical and detail-focused and excels at analyzing complex data and ensuring accuracy.
• Balances strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
• Drives accountability, performance, and continuous improvement.

THE PAYOFF:

• Collaborate with a talented and enthusiastic leadership team.
• Watch your efforts positively impact the firm’s growth and success.
• Receive a competitive salary, bonus, and full benefits package.
• Potential to succeed the current Director of Finance in a few years.

OUR COMMITMENT TO CANDIDATES

Gilman Partners is committed to strengthening leadership teams and elevating talent in our communities—and that means all qualified applicants will receive consideration. You do not have to meet every qualification in this job description to apply. If you are drawn to the position and believe your experience makes you a good fit, we encourage you to reach out.