The Head of Accounting is a hands-on financial leader responsible for managing the daily accounting operations while also providing controller-level oversight, reporting, and financial controls. This role requires someone who is equally comfortable performing transactional accounting work and owning the accuracy, integrity, and structure of the company's financials. In a small business environment, this position blends bookkeeping, general accounting, and strategic financial management into a single accountable role.

Accounts Payable (Hands-On Ownership)

• Receive, review, and enter vendor invoices into the accounting system
• Match invoices to purchase orders and receiving documents when applicable
• Ensure proper approvals are obtained prior to payment
• Schedule and process payments in accordance with vendor terms and cash flow needs
• Maintain accurate vendor records and resolve billing discrepancies

Accounts Receivable (Hands-On Ownership)

• Generate customer invoices and ensure timely billing
• Receive and post customer payments into the accounting system
• Prepare and make bank deposits for checks and electronic receipts
• Monitor aging reports and follow up on past-due accounts
• Make collection calls and emails to customers as needed to ensure timely payment

General Accounting & Banking

• Perform daily and monthly bank activity processing
• Reconcile all bank and credit card accounts
• Manage banking relationships and online banking activity
• Monitor and control cash balances
• Ensure all cash movements are properly recorded and documented
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow reporting
• Manage all month-end and year-end close processes
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal accounting controls and procedures
• Support external CPA with tax filings, audits, and financial reviews
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable financial regulations

Cash Flow & Financial Management

• Prepare and maintain cash flow forecasts
• Monitor working capital and liquidity
• Annual budget creation and financial planning
• Identify cost control and efficiency opportunities

Process Improvement & Ownership

• Improve accounting workflows and documentation
• Establish and maintain accounting policies and procedures
• Act as the process owner for financial data accuracy and integrity
• Own the design and enforcement of accounting processes and controls
• Serve as the primary financial point of contact for management
• Work closely with operations, purchasing, and sales teams
• Potential to manage additional accounting or administrative staff as the company grows

Required Attributes Knowledge Areas

• Full-cycle accounting (A/P, A/R, general ledger, journal entries, month-end close)
• GAAP and basic financial reporting standards
• Cash management and cash flow forecasting
• Internal controls and basic audit readiness
• Financial statement preparation (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow)
• Expense classification and cost control principles
• Small business accounting operations and best practices
• Accounting systems and ERP/accounting software
• Microsoft Excel and financial data analysis
• Vendor and customer account management
• Budgeting and variance analysis fundamentals
• Documentation, record retention, and compliance practices
• Creating financial presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint

Skills and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and take full ownership of the accounting function
• Ability to process transactional work while maintaining a strategic financial view
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to explain financial information to non-financial leaders
• Ability to manage deadlines, especially month-end and year-end close
• Strong reconciliation and discrepancy resolution skills
• Advanced proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally
• Ability to identify process improvements and implement practical controls
• Strong time-management skills in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods
• Commitment to a full-time, hands-on role

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree preferred in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, including hands-on bookkeeping
• Prior experience in a small to mid-size company environment strongly preferred
• Demonstrated experience managing A/P, A/R, banking, and general ledger activities
• Experience preparing monthly financial statements and managing month-end close
• Experience working with external accountants, auditors, and banks
• Strong working knowledge of GAAP principles
• CPA or CMA certification a plus, but not required
• Experience with accounting systems/ERP platforms and Excel-based reporting
• Proven ability to build structure and processes