Accounting Systems and Control Manager

Robert Half is working with an esteemed insurance company in Des Moines in their search for Accounting Systems and Control Manager. The Accounting Systems and Control Manger will lead a small team responsible for ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting within compliance standards.

The role emphasizes deep expertise in accounting systems, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms, Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP), and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), with a particular focus on the insurance industry. This position requires leadership in solving complex accounting issues, developing team talent, and fostering collaboration across departments and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Accounting and Issue Resolution:

• Research and resolve complex accounting issues with a dual focus on SAP and GAAP, specifically within the insurance sector.
• Oversee the accurate application of accounting principles while maintaining and improving internal controls.

Financial Reporting:

• Manage the preparation and review of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, ensuring compliance and accuracy with regulatory and corporate standards.
• Supervise journal entries and reconciliation of account balances, ensuring strict adherence to internal control practices.

System Expertise and Implementation:

• Maintain advanced knowledge of accounting systems, including ERP platforms (e.g., SAP) and legacy systems, to support workflows related to the general ledger and policy administration.
• Lead system optimization initiatives, ensuring smooth execution of organizational changes impacting financial reporting.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Coach, mentor, and manage the team to enhance technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and overall performance.
• Foster an accountable, high-performing team culture that prioritizes continuous learning and improvement.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Build relationships across departments, acting as a key liaison to proactively identify and execute financial reporting initiatives.
• Train and guide the team in effectively managing complex communications, both within the organization and externally.

Regulatory and Audit Support:

• Collaborate with external auditors and regulatory examiners, ensuring the team is equipped to handle key interactions.
• Monitor changes in regulatory requirements, aligning processes and reporting practices to maintain compliance.

Project Management:

• Assign, prioritize, and oversee execution of special projects, ensuring adherence to deadlines and departmental goals.
• Maintain procedural documentation to support internal control frameworks and team activities.

Qualifications:

• Deep expertise in financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls within the insurance industry.
• Advanced knowledge of Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Extensive experience with ERP platforms, such as SAP, and legacy accounting systems.
• Leadership experience overseeing small accounting teams, with a track record of fostering performance and development.
• Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
• CPA designation strongly preferred; advanced proficiency with Excel and accounting technology required.