Director of Accounting in Austin, Texas at Magnificent Differences Consulting, LLC

Position Purpose:

The Director of Accounting is responsible for leading UTR Group's accounting function and ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and effectiveness of the organization's financial operations. This position oversees financial reporting, accounting operations, internal controls, compliance, and audit activities while providing leadership to the internal accounting team and coordinating the work of external accounting partners. As the organization's senior accounting leader, the Director develops efficient accounting processes, strengthens financial controls, and provides accounting expertise that supports sound operational and business decisions.

Core Responsibilities:

Financial Operations & Reporting

• Direct the organization's accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, payroll accounting, fixed assets, and financial reporting.
• Oversee the monthly and year-end close process, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements and supporting schedules.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls that support accurate financial reporting and regulatory compliance.
• Review and approve significant accounting transactions, journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial reports to ensure the integrity of the organization's financial records.
• Lead the annual audit process and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors and other accounting partners.
• Monitor compliance with applicable accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and organizational financial policies.

Financial Planning, Analysis & Process Improvement

• Partner with organizational leadership in the development of budgets, forecasts, and financial planning activities.
• Monitor financial performance, analyze variances and trends, and provide recommendations that inform business decisions.
• Evaluate and improve accounting processes, workflows, and financial systems to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Identify financial and operational risks and implement practical solutions to strengthen accounting operations.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Lead, develop, and evaluate the performance of the internal accounting team.
• Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance expectations to ensure the effective delivery of accounting services.
• Build and maintain a high-performing accounting function by promoting collaboration, accountability, continuous improvement, and service excellence.
• Promote financial stewardship across the organization by partnering with leaders to strengthen financial understanding, accountability, and sound financial practices.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent experience required.
• Minimum of ten years of progressive accounting experience, including financial reporting, financial management, internal controls, budgeting, audit coordination, and leadership of complex accounting operations required.
• Minimum of five years leading accounting teams, functions, or departments.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or other relevant accounting or finance certification preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be able to work a hybrid schedule in accordance with organizational and departmental expectations.
• Must maintain a work environment that supports productivity, confidentiality, and professional communication when working remotely.
• Must have access to reliable internet service sufficient to perform remote work responsibilities.
• Must be available to attend in-person meetings, trainings, audits, and other business activities as required.

Required Competencies:

• Financial Acumen: Demonstrates expert knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, regulatory compliance, and financial management practices.
• Analytical Thinking: Evaluates complex financial information, identifies trends and risks, and develops strategic recommendations that support sound business decisions.
• Attention to Detail: Produces accurate work, identifies discrepancies, and ensures the integrity and reliability of the organization's financial records.
• Organization & Prioritization: Effectively manages multiple priorities, deadlines, projects, and organizational initiatives while maintaining operational excellence.
• Communication: Communicates financial information clearly and effectively to employees, organizational leaders, executive leadership, and external accounting partners.
• Leadership & Talent Development: Provides strategic direction, coaching, mentorship, and accountability while developing a high-performing accounting team and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Financial Reporting & Presentation: Oversees the preparation, analysis, and presentation of financial information, reports, and recommendations for executive leadership, committees, and Board-level audiences.
• Problem Solving: Anticipates challenges, evaluates alternatives, and implements practical, sustainable solutions that strengthen accounting operations and organizational performance.
• Relationship Management: Builds collaborative relationships with employees, organizational leaders, vendors, auditors, and external accounting partners to support effective financial operations.
• Financial Systems & Process Improvement: Evaluates, implements, and optimizes accounting systems, financial processes, and internal workflows to improve efficiency, strengthen internal controls, and support organizational growth.
• Governance & Risk Management: Promotes sound financial governance by identifying financial, operational, compliance, and internal control risks and implementing strategies to protect organizational assets and strengthen financial stewardship.