Director of Accounting (Arkansas based)
Position Summary
AMS Impact Group is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Accounting to support the financial operations of the Blytheville School District. The Director of Accounting will report to the Chief Financial Officer and will work directly with the Blytheville School District.
Key Responsibilities
Direct all accounting operations for the Blytheville School District.
Oversee the General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Cash Management, Fixed Assets, and Bank Reconciliations.
Ensure timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting.
Prepare financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Arkansas Department of Education requirements.
Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation.
Support development and administration of the District's annual operating budget.
Monitor revenues and expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Prepare financial analyses, forecasts, and budget reports for district leadership.
Aid in long-range financial planning and capital improvement initiatives.
Provide financial guidance to department leaders and school administrators.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations.
Cook up and monitor internal and external financial audits.
Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls that safeguard District assets.
Ensure compliance with Arkansas procurement laws and purchasing requirements.
Support implementation of accounting policies and financial procedures that improve operational efficiency.
Monitor grant budgets, expenditures, and reimbursement requests.
Ensure compliance with federal and state grant requirements.
Partner with program administrators to maximize grant funding opportunities.
Prepare financial reports required by granting agencies.
Provide financial oversight of payroll accounting and employee benefits expenditures.
Partner with Human Resources to ensure payroll accuracy and compliance.
Review payroll-related financial reporting and reconciliations.
Support accurate accounting of compensation, benefits, and related liabilities.
Supervise accounting and finance personnel.
Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance expectations.
Promote professional development and continuous improvement within the Finance Department.
Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer, district leadership, school administrators, auditors, and external agencies.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting or finance experience.
Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or management experience.
Demonstrated experience with governmental accounting, financial reporting, and annual audits.
Strong knowledge of governmental and fund accounting principles.
Experience preparing and administering complex organizational budgets.
Knowledge of internal controls, financial compliance, and risk management.
Experience managing grants and restricted funding.
Understanding of payroll accounting and purchasing processes.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external stakeholders.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and financial management systems.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience in Arkansas public school finance.
Knowledge of Arkansas Department of Education financial reporting requirements.
Experience utilizing APSCN/eFinance or similar governmental financial management systems.
Experience managing federal and state education grants.
Working Conditions
Primarily office-based with prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.
Occasional travel between District facilities and meetings with external agencies.
Occasional evening meetings or extended hours during budget development, financial reporting, or audit periods.
Benefits
Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
Life and Disability Insurance.
Arkansas Teacher Retirement System (if applicable) or applicable retirement benefits.
Paid Time Off and Holidays.
Professional Development Opportunities.