Accounting Manager

Accounting & Finance Manager Sector: Government / Education Reports To: CFO Role Summary The Accounting & Finance Manager is responsible for managing the daily financial operations of a public-sector or educational organization, ensuring compliance with government regulations, accounting standards, and funding requirements. This role oversees budgeting, financial reporting, audits, and internal controls while supporting transparent, accountable, and mission-driven financial practices. Key Responsibilities Financial Management & Oversight Manage general ledger activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and month- and year-end close Ensure compliance with GASB, GAAP, and applicable federal, state, and local financial regulations Maintain internal controls and financial policies to ensure fiscal integrity and audit readiness Budgeting & Forecasting Prepare, monitor, and manage annual operating and capital budgets Perform budget-to-actual analysis and provide variance explanations Support long-range financial planning, enrollment projections, and funding scenarios Partner with department leaders to ensure responsible budget management Reporting & Compliance Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports Coordinate external audits and respond to audit findings Ensure compliance with restricted funds, grants, categorical funding, and bond proceeds Prepare regulatory reports required by oversight agencies (state, federal, or accrediting bodies) Grants & Fund Accounting Oversee accounting for grants and special revenue funds Monitor allowable expenditures and compliance with grant terms Support grant reporting, reimbursement requests, and closeouts Payroll & Accounts Operations Oversee payroll processes, benefits accounting, and labor cost allocations Manage accounts payable and receivable functions Ensure timely payments, billing, and collections in accordance with public-sector rules Leadership & Collaboration Supervise, mentor, and evaluate accounting staff Collaborate with HR, procurement, academic departments, and executive leadership Provide financial guidance and training to non-financial managers Support board, council, or governing body presentations as needed Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field Minimum 5+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience Experience in governmental, public-sector, nonprofit, or educational finance Strong knowledge of fund accounting, budget management, and financial reporting Advanced proficiency with financial systems and Excel All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.