Senior Accountant Apply
Department: Finance
Reports to: VP of Finance & Accounting
ELLIS MISSION: Ellis partners with families to provide high-quality early childhood education and out-of-school programs in a warm, nurturing environment. A recognized leader in our field, we support children across the socio-economic spectrum, treasure diversity in all forms, and celebrate the joy of childhood.
Ellis Early Learning, \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"Ellis,\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" (formerly known as Ellis Memorial) is a vibrant, Boston-based nonprofit with a rich history founded in 1885. Ellis provides the highest quality early education and care for infants, toddlers and preschool children. Ellis is among the most socio-economically, racially, and culturally diverse organizations serving children in Boston and is nationally accredited. Through a partnership with Boston Public Schools, it also operates four high performing community based UPK classrooms. Ellis operates out of two historic buildings in the South End and a new center in Jamaica Plain and serves over 300 children annually. Learn more about us at www.ellisearlylearning.org.
SUMMARY - The Senior Accountant plays a crucial role in the financial management of Ellis Early Learning. This position involves overseeing various accounting functions, ensuring compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, and supporting the VP of Accounting and Finance. The Senior Accountant will contribute to the organization's mission by maintaining accurate financial records and providing essential financial information to support strategic decision-making.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Financial Recordkeeping
- Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts.
- Record financial transactions and ensure accuracy in tracking and maintaining records.
- Manage accounts payable and receivable processes.
- Assist with the annual budget and forecasting processes.
- Collaborate closely with managers to monitor budget performance.
- Provide analysis of budget variances and recommend corrective actions.
- Financial Reporting
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Generate financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit accounting standards.
- Grant Accounting
- Track and report on grant expenditures.
- Work closely with program managers to ensure proper allocation of grant funds.
- Prepare financial reports for grantors and donors.
- Audit Support
- Assist with preparation for annual audits and coordinate with external auditors.
- Provide necessary documentation and explanations during audits.
- Implement recommendations from auditors as needed.
- Compliance
- Stay updated on nonprofit accounting regulations and compliance requirements.
- Ensure adherence to all financial policies and procedures.
- Cash Management
- Monitor cash flow and manage banking relationships.
- Reconcile bank statements and resolve discrepancies.
- Process Improvement
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency.
- Implement best practices in financial operations.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Assist the Enrollment/Office Manager with tuition billing accuracy and tracking.
- Work with the Development Team to accurately account for donations and grants.
- Collaborate with other departments to gather financial information and support their financial needs.
- Training and Development
- Provide guidance and training to junior accounting staff.
- Stay informed about changes in accounting principles and share knowledge within the accounting/finance team.
The purpose of this description is to provide the major responsibilities of the position. It is not to be considered a complete statement of all elements of the work that may be performed.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field
- Minimum of 2-3 years of work experience in an accounting/finance department
- Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit accounting standards
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills; work well with internal and external stakeholders
- Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 1-2 years of experience in nonprofit accounting
- Working knowledge of Sage 50 and QuickBooks Online
- Experience implementing a new accounting system
Competitive salary and benefits package including vacation and sick time, health insurance, dental insurance, and 401k. Please submit rsum and cover letter with salary requirements to hr@ellisearlylearning.org
