Head of Accounting Group
FLSA Status: Exempt
Supervisor: Managing Partner
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Summary: Oversee accounting department. Responsibilities include supervision of Accounting staff, general ledger, financial statements, partner compensation, reporting, banking, budgeting, billing, cash receipts, payroll, accounts payable, administration of retirement and cafeteria plans.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs or particular client or matter demands.
- Oversee accounting department and its staff, currently made up of 5 full time employees and 1 part-time employee whose responsibilities include billing, collections, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll and accounting management.
- Hold regular team meetings to discuss up-coming projects, deadlines and get feedback from staff.
- Focus on professional development of team staff.
- Prepare strategic and financial analyses of operations, budgets, forecasts, and cash flow; act as a trusted strategic advisor to firm's Managing Partner and Executive Committee regarding the firm's financial position.
- Review monthly financial statements and management reports for accuracy prior to distribution to partnership.
- Establish and monitor internal controls.
- Work closely with the Accounting Manager to review G/L for accuracy and compliance to firm policies and accounting principles.
- Oversee the firm's new matter opening and conflicts processes.
- Prepare property tax returns and coordinate the preparation of the Partnership Tax Returns with external CPAs.
- Develop and maintain Banking relationships:
- Reconcile bank statements monthly and provide summary for partners.
- Work with bank vendors with regards to lines of credit, letters of credit and asset financin
- Compile and produce financial information for annual Partner's Retreat.
- Prepare and deliver high-level presentations to Managing Partner, Executive Committee, Compensation Committee and Partnership.
- Produce firm budget in collaboration with Managing Partner, Practice Group Leaders, Executive Committee and Management Staff.
- Drive forward-thinking process improvement within the department.
- Create Cash Flow Forecast and strategic financial plan.
- Monitor A/R balances and Cash Receipts.
- Administer the firm's two Retirement Plans.
- Administer Flexible & Health Spending Accounts and ensure compliance with Form 5500.
- Act as primary point of contact for firm's time and billing vendor.
- Cross train department and provide back up when necessary.
- Various other projects as assigned by Managing Partner and/or Executive Committee.
Education and/or Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance.
- CPA certification preferred.
- Ten years of supervisory experience in an accounting or finance department.
- Law firm experience preferred.
- Previous experience with accounting software conversion and/or implementation a plus.
Required Skills and Abilities: Demonstrated leadership and management experience. Ability to handle multiple projects and details simultaneously. Requires self-direction, tact, diplomacy and a clear, courteous and professional manner when dealing with attorneys and staff at the firm, outside vendors, such as insurance brokers and agents, external accountants, auditors, retirement plan custodians, etc. Demonstrated effective written and oral communication skills, including presentation skills, and the ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with all levels. Ability to negotiate contracts for best possible outcome for firm. To apply for the position, submit your resume, and cover letter to Dixon Dunavant.
For more information about the opportunities available at Parker Hudson, please contact Dixon Dunavant.
