6 Accounting Manager Jobs

Accounting managers are charged with oversight of financial reporting practices ranging from standard ledger preparation to end-of-year auditing. The accounting manager might work alone in a smaller organization but would supervise a staff in larger business settings. Duties on a daily basis may include procedures and policies development, payroll management, and monitoring intra-company department transactions. The accounting manager often acts as liaison to contracted external accounting agencies.

Skillset: Accounting managers should be proficient in a PC environment with a focus on payroll, spreadsheet and financial software. They should be strong team players and leaders along with an ability to adapt to a constantly-changing procedural and compliances environment. Responsiveness to tight deadlines requiring multidepartment coordination requires exceptional organizational capabilities. Preparation of quarterly and year-end reports will require advanced analytical skills.

Education: Most accounting managers will have a BS degree in business administration or accounting. Many companies require a CPA background and former employment with a public accounting firm.

Career Path: In addition to a four-year degree, accounting managers should have a background in bookkeeping and payroll preparation along with some supervisory experience. Training in recognized accounting systems is also essential.