Bachelor's degree in accounting from a four-year college or university
6-8 years of related experience or equivalent education and experience
Active CPA License required
Strong understanding of client business operations
Proficient in managing staff schedules and performance evaluations
Responsibilities
Maintain ongoing client communication throughout the year
Prepare and modify engagement letters for Partner approval
Review and assign staff tasks based on qualifications
Evaluate internal controls and revise work programs as needed
Monitor engagement progress against budget and timelines
Anticipate and address potential issues during engagements
Keep the Partner updated on significant developments and recommend solutions
Benefits
Opportunities for professional development and training
Involvement in community and professional organizations
Support for business development initiatives
Collaborative work environment with experienced professionals
Potential for leadership roles in managing engagements
Full Job Description
Maintains steady contact with clients throughout the business year, which involves a thorough knowledge of the client and all facets of the client's business rather than mere routine attendance to immediate problems
Prepares engagement letters and any subsequent modifications for approval by a Partner, answers any questions the client may have so there is a complete understanding of the nature and terms of and assignment, including an estimate of fees
Reviews staff assignments, making certain they are appropriate; since this is a continuing duty, the Manager must be fully familiar with the qualifications of all staff members
Evaluates internal controls, risk assessment, and work programs prepared by the staff, and if necessary, revises the work program, then discusses the work program and time budget with the Partner to obtain approval
Follows the progress of the work during an engagement in relation to budgeted time and scheduled dates of completion, spending as much time as possible with the client's management group, periodically reviewing the working papers in the field as the job progresses.
Determines whether all phases of the engagement are being carried out properly and in the best sequence. Anticipates the problem areas and questions that might arise
Knows the client's impression of the conduct of the engagement
Keeps the Partner informed of all important developments in the engagement, analyzes any issues, and recommends solutions
Resolves problems with the Partner's approval and reviews the report drafted by the in-charge or accountant as the engagement nears completion
Follows reports through processing, answering any questions that arise, submits the reports to the Partner for final review, and supervises the distribution according to the client's instructions
Deals directly with the client's attorney, banker, or broker, and other third parties
Prepares timely staff performance evaluations and discusses them with the staff members
Promotes the most efficient operation of the firm by planning engagements and managing professional personnel. Should work to develop a responsible and trained staff by assisting in recruiting, developing training aids, and acting as an instructor in professional development programs
Should be proficient in managing staff schedules in advance of initiating multiple jobs, and updating as needs arise
Should make associations to develop new business for the firm and to maintain its professional image in the community. Doing so may include taking an active role in professional, civic, or charitable organizations, delivering talks, writing articles for publications
Prepares other reports and projects as requested from time to time by the Partners
Education, Experience + Certifications
Bachelor's degree in accounting from a four-year college or university
six (6) to eight (8) years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
