Director of Accounting - Sonoran Desert Institute

Looking for a new opportunity where you can make a difference and grow your career at the same time?

Look no further.

We're Sonoran Desert Institute and we've been changing lives since 2000.

Our team is growing, and we are seeking an experienced Director of Accounting to join our team.

Position Summary:

The Director of Accounting is a highly skilled and proactive contributor that leads our accounting department. The Director of Accounting will be responsible for managing the full scope of the month-end close process, overseeing all accounting policies and procedures, and ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The ideal candidate will possess specific experience in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) organization and will ultimately oversee payroll, bank reconciliations, accounts payable, and treasury functions. A strong background in implementing and maintaining proper internal controls is essential.

Here's what you'd be doing:

• Manage and oversee the full month-end close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in financial reporting
• Develop, implement, and maintain accounting policies and procedures to ensure compliance with GAAP and internal controls
• Oversee payroll processing, ensuring compliance with regulations and accuracy in payroll reconciliations
• Manage and supervise the accounts payable function, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments
• Coordinate and complete annual financial audit on time for submission to the Department of Education
• Oversee treasury functions, including cash management and forecasting, to optimize liquidity and financial stability
• Reconcile accounts and resolve discrepancies to ensure the integrity of financial data
• Work in conjunction with CFO to prepare and present financial statements and reports to senior management and stakeholders, providing insights and recommendations
• Ensure compliance with tax regulations and manage the external audit process
• Provide expertise on ESOP-related accounting matters, ensuring adherence to compliance and reporting requirements.
• Implement and maintain proper internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the accuracy of financial reporting
• Mentor and develop the accounting team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement
• Stay current with industry trends, accounting standards, and regulatory changes to implement best practice
• Other tasks as assigned

Here's what we're looking for:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA or equivalent certification preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Extensive knowledge of GAAP and experience in financial reporting
• Specific experience in an ESOP organization, with a strong understanding of ESOP accounting and compliance issues
• Proven experience in payroll processing, accounts payable, treasury management, and account reconciliations.
• Strong background in implementing and maintaining internal controls
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Strong leadership abilities with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite

Here's what we offer:

• Highly competitive compensation
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Comprehensive benefits package
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company-paid Life insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 14 paid holidays
• Referral program
• Tuition discounts and reimbursement
• Career development opportunities with a growing company
• And perhaps most importantly, a team who is dedicated to your success!

Here's our story:

Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) has been changing lives since 2000. As a DEAC accredited school, our mission is to provide students with current, industry-driven, quality education, delivered through online distance education and practical applications. SDI is an employee-owned company creating a culture with an ownership mentality at the foundation. We believe in rewarding our employees through the success of the institution. Come be a part of a dynamic organization with the ability to impact the lives of others through education.

Want to know more about SDI's culture? Visit https://www.sdi.edu/sonoran-desert-institute-earns-2023-great-place-to-work-certification/

Sonoran Desert Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It recruits and hires without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran or disability status, sexual orientation, gender expression, or any factors prohibited by law and affirms in policy and practice to support equal opportunity in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

*Preference given to candidates currently residing or planning to reside in the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area, AZ upon hire. Unless specifically agreed upon, SDI does not provide relocation assistance

**Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

***All benefits not available immediately upon hire. Some eligibility requirements may need to be met to be eligible for some benefits based on company policy.

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