Accounting Manager - Operations and Process Improvement

Description:

Position Summary

The Accounting Manager – Operations and Process Improvement is responsible for

supporting the general accounting functions of Blue Learning, with an emphasis on

process improvement and financial workflow development. In addition, this role will

perform a broad range of accounting activities while serving as a key contributor to the

design, redesign, and continuous improvement of accounting processes and workflows

for specific areas such as BlueX and other related entities.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical accounting skills with a process-oriented

mindset. In addition to ensuring accurate and timely accounting records and financial

reporting, the Accounting Manager will evaluate existing processes, identify

opportunities for greater efficiency and effectiveness, and develop practical solutions

that strengthen internal controls, improve workflow, reduce manual effort, and support

the organizations continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

The following will be performed primarily to support Blue Learning, but due to the

integrated nature with other entities/departments such as BlueX and Bright Thinker

there will be some crossover responsibilities.

General Accounting

? Perform general accounting functions, including journal entries, account

reconciliations, accruals, prepaid expenses, fixed assets, and other month-end

close activities.

? Prepare and analyze balance sheet account reconciliations and investigate

discrepancies.

? Support timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close

processes.

? Analyze financial activity and account balances to identify unusual transactions,

variances, and trends.

? Assist with financial reporting and provide accounting analysis and support to

management.

? Maintain accurate and organized accounting records in accordance with

applicable accounting standards and organizational policies

? Support annual audits and provide schedules, documentation and analysis as

requested

? Assist with accounting for intercompany transactions and activity among related

entities, as applicable.

Process Design Workflow Improvement

? Evaluate existing accounting processes and workflows to identify inefficiencies,

bottlenecks, duplication, control gaps, and opportunities for improvement.

? Lead or participate in the design and redesign of accounting processes and

workflows to create a more effective, efficient, and scalable operation.

? Develop standardized processes and procedures that promote

consistency across all related entities.

? Document workflows, roles and responsibilities, approval processes, controls,

and procedures.

? Identify opportunities to streamline manual processes, eliminate unnecessary

steps, and improve the flow of information.

? Partner with accounting, finance, operations, procurement, and other

departments to understand business requirements and develop practical process

improvements.

? Assist with implementation and adoption of redesigned processes, including

communication, training, documentation, and follow-up.

? Monitor the effectiveness of process improvements and recommend additional

changes as the organization evolves.

Systems Internal Controls

? Support the effective use and optimization of accounting and financial systems.

? Participate in system enhancements, workflow configuration, testing,

implementation, and process documentation.

? Identify opportunities to improve system functionality and integration between

accounting and operational processes. Assist in developing and strengthening

internal controls throughout the accounting function.

? Identify control weaknesses and recommend solutions that balance appropriate

oversight with operational efficiency. Ensure processes are adequately

documented and consistently applied.

Accounting Workflows

? Evaluate and improve the end-to-end financial workflows, such as Accounts

Payable including invoice submission, coding, approval, processing, and

payment.

? Identify opportunities to improve processing efficiency, approval workflows,

documentation, and controls.

? Assist in establishing standardized procedures across entities and departments.

? Identify opportunities to leverage technology and automation to improve

accounting workflows and reduce manual effort.

? Work with others within Finance to establish an adequate control system related

to billings between all entities, including BlueX.

Qualifications

? Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. 4+ years of

progressive accounting experience.

? Strong understanding of general accounting principles and month-end close

processes.

? Experience with Accounts Payable and other core accounting processes.

? Demonstrated experience designing, redesigning, documenting, or improving

accounting processes and workflows.

? Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes

and develop practical solutions.

? Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Advanced Excel skills

and experience with accounting/ERP systems.

? Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

? Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and collaborate

effectively across departments and entities.

Preferred Qualifications

? Experience working in a Charter Management Organization, K–12 education,

nonprofit, or multi-entity environment.

? Experience with process improvement, workflow automation, or accounting

system implementations.

? Experience developing accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.

? CPA or other relevant accounting certification is a plus.

Key Success Factors

? Success in this position will be demonstrated through ensuring Blue Learning

and its related entities have:

? Accurate and timely general accounting and financial reporting.

? Effective support of the month-end and year-end close processes.

? More efficient, standardized, and scalable accounting workflows.

? Improved processes and turnaround times. Reduction of unnecessary manual

work, duplication, and process bottlenecks.

? Stronger documentation and internal controls.

? Successful implementation and adoption of redesigned processes.

? An accounting operation that can effectively support the continued growth and

complexity of Blue Learning and its related entities.

Requirements: