Account Manager

A Head of Accounts, also known as a Head Accountant or Accounts Manager, is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting activities for an organization. The role ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial records, provides strategic financial guidance, and ensures compliance with all regulatory standards.

Key responsibilities

Leadership and management

• Direct and oversee all operations of the accounting department, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and the general ledger.

• Develop, mentor, and supervise the accounting team to maximize efficiency and foster professional growth.

• Formulate and implement accounting policies and procedures to ensure accuracy and consistency across the department.

Financial reporting and analysis

• Oversee the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.

• Manage the budgeting and forecasting processes, providing financial analysis and insights to senior leadership.

• Analyze financial data to identify trends, evaluate the company's financial performance, and develop strategies to reduce costs and increase profitability.

Compliance and risk management

• Ensure that all financial records and reporting are in full compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and accounting standards (e.g., GAAP or IFRS).

• Establish and enforce a strong internal control framework to safeguard company assets and prevent fraud or errors.

• Coordinate internal and external audits, acting as the primary point of contact for external auditors and other financial professionals.

Strategic guidance

• Act as a financial advisor to the senior management team, providing insight and recommendations on strategic decisions.

• Manage cash flow, monitor liquidity, and advise on strategies to maintain a healthy financial position.

• Collaborate with other departments to support overall company goals and provide financial insights on various initiatives.

Qualifications and skills

Qualifications

• Education: A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. Many employers prefer or require a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or equivalent certification.

• Experience: A minimum of 710 years of progressive accounting experience is typical, with a significant amount of time spent in a managerial or leadership role.

Technical skills

• In-depth knowledge of accounting principles (e.g., GAAP or IFRS), laws, and financial regulations.

• Proven expertise in budgeting, financial forecasting, and cash flow management.

• Proficiency with financial management and ERP software such as SAP, Oracle, or QuickBooks.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for complex financial analysis and reporting.

Soft skills

• Leadership: The ability to lead, mentor, and inspire a team is critical for success in this role.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for collaborating with other departments and presenting financial information to senior management and external stakeholders.

• Analytical thinking: The capacity to analyze complex financial data, identify risks, and develop strategic solutions is required.

• Problem-solving: A proactive and solutions-oriented mindset for resolving discrepancies and improving financial processes.

• Attention to detail: A high degree of accuracy and precision is necessary for handling financial information