Senior Accounting Specialist

Job Description Details
The Senior Accounting Specialist is primarily responsible for executing accounting engagements as outlined by the Engagement Manager and Engagement Partner, in accordance with the standards of the Firm, the BPS Division, and the accounting profession as set forth in official pronouncements. The Senior Accounting Specialist carries out the engagement following the approved plan and keeps the Engagement Manager and Partner informed of progress, any significant variances from the time budget, discovery of fraud or errors, challenges encountered, and issues affecting completion or client relationships. The Senior Accounting Specialist may assume the role of Accounting Manager depending on the set-up, requirement, size, and complexity of the engagement.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Engagement Management
• Understand the client's business, industry, accounting standards, taxation, and relevant laws to perform assigned tasks effectively.
• Apply knowledge of client accounting policies and execute procedures in accordance with the work program set by the Accounting Manager.
• Provide regular progress updates, highlight issues, and communicate with clients as authorized.
• Demonstrate proficiency in using job-related tools (e.g., Nexus, Office 365, Oracle, QuickBooks, Xero).
• Coordinate engagement requirements with the team and client, ensuring issues are addressed promptly.
• Validate findings with the client and ensure deliverables are accurate, complete, and on schedule.
• Maintain a calendar of deliverables and ensure confidential, timely submission to authorized recipients.
• Review, guide, and delegate tasks to Accounting Specialists and Finance Analysts; discuss and finalize Performance Appraisal Reports (PARs).
• Adapt to new assignments and changing client needs while upholding professionalism and ethical standards.
• Recommend process improvements and embrace new ideas and approaches.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned by superiors.
• Relationship Management
• Uphold the Firm and BPS Division's image by maintaining high-quality client service and responsiveness.
• Maintain updated contact lists of clients, government agencies, and other third parties.
• Regularly communicate engagement progress and concerns in coordination with the Engagement Manager.
• Demonstrate professionalism and objectivity in addressing client concerns and recommending solutions.
• Foster teamwork, collaboration, and a positive working environment; participate in Firm and BPS activities such as planning sessions and team events.
• People Management
• Provide on-the-job training and guidance to Accounting Specialists and Finance Analysts on proper documentation and deliverable preparation.
• Motivate and mentor team members to reach their full professional potential and improve performance as needed.
• Provide timely feedback, lead coaching activities, and participate in annual performance reviews.
• Professional Development
• Attend internal and external trainings and comply with division-required examinations and assessments.
• Request and review PARs for each engagement.
• Participate in internal and external audits (IQCR, GTAR) and contribute to quality reviews.
• Complete an Individual Development Plan and participate in mentoring and coaching activities.
• Practice Development Functions
• Assist in assessing potential client requirements, processes, and organization.
• Suggest improvements to the Firm and BPS policies, procedures, and processes.
• Attend meetings with potential clients alongside Managers, Directors, or Partners.
• Administrative Functions
• Comply with Firm and BPS Division policies, processes, and administrative requirements.
• Ensure proper filing, warehousing, and confidentiality of working files and documents.
• Complete required monitoring, surveys, and accurate time reports promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the Firm's standards of integrity and professionalism.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accountancy; CPA preferred but not required
• At least 3-5 years of solid experience in Accounting, particularly in general ledger (GL) accounting, tax preparation, and tax filing
• Well-developed oral and written communication skills
• Proactive, analytical, and detail-oriented
• Demonstrates leadership qualities, sound judgment, and a positive work attitude