What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accountant (CPA) position at Forward Global?
About Forward Global
Forward Global is a leading international risk and reputation management advisory firm. We design custom solutions for global corporations, law firms, litigation funders, private equity and venture capital firms, foreign governments, international associations, NGOs, high-net-worth individuals, and family offices.
Our firm brings together over 350 advisors with diverse backgrounds in international strategy, communications, politics, policy, and digital content creation. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., we also have offices in Paris, Brussels, Montreal, London, and Abidjan.
Position Overview
As part of our growing U.S. operations, we are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Accountant to join our Washington, D.C. office. Reporting to the U.S. Finance Director and working closely with our Paris-based finance team, the Accountant will play a critical role in supporting all financial and accounting functions for the U.S. team (currently 60 employees across D.C. and remote locations).
This is a full-time, in-person role offering a dynamic environment, opportunities for process improvement, and direct engagement with our leadership team.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting & Financial Reporting
- Maintain the integrity and accuracy of the general ledger; prepare and post journal entries, including accruals and deferrals.
- Reconcile bank accounts and subledgers monthly; investigate and resolve discrepancies.
- Prepare and submit monthly financial reports and annual financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow).
- Deliver timely, actionable financial analysis to support strategic decision-making.
Financial Oversight & Compliance
- Uphold internal controls and ensure compliance with Forward Global’s accounting policies and procedures.
- Monitor regulatory and accounting changes and recommend policy updates as needed.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent application of financial procedures across departments.
Budgeting & Forecasting
- Support the development and monitoring of quarterly and annual budgets for U.S. operations.
- Partner with business leaders to ensure budget alignment and optimal resource allocation.
- Conduct budget variance analysis and provide recommendations for cost efficiencies and risk mitigation.
Accounts Payable & Receivable (AP/AR)
- Oversee day-to-day financial transactions including AP/AR processing, expense allocations, and payment approvals.
- Ensure accuracy and timeliness of entries and adherence to internal control procedures.
Tax Compliance & Support
- Assist with the preparation and filing of federal, state, and local tax returns in coordination with external tax advisors.
- Maintain organized documentation for tax reporting and audit support.
- Monitor changes in tax regulations and help ensure compliance with all tax-related obligations.
- Contribute to annual tax planning and support year-end close and audit processes.
Process Improvement & Operational Efficiency
- Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and reporting systems and support in the implementation of new tools.
- Partner with the Finance Director and Group CFO to implement best practices and automation initiatives that enhance department efficiency.
- Contribute to cross-functional projects that improve financial insight and business outcomes.
Candidate Profile
- Active CPA certification is required.
- Minimum of 6 years of accounting experience, preferably in dynamic and fast-paced environments such as startups, scale-ups, or international firms.
- Strong understanding of accrual-based accounting and multi-entity financial reporting.
- Proficiency with Excel and other accounting software such as Sage Intacct, Salesforce, Concur.
- Exposure to international and multicultural environments.
- Experience with intercompany transactions and currency conversions is a plus.
- Analytical and detail-oriented with a high standard of accuracy and accountability.
- Results-driven and data-informed; able to interpret KPIs and turn insights into action.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to build trust and collaborate across departments.
- Proactive, solutions-oriented, and comfortable navigating challenging conversations with diplomacy and professionalism.
Forward Global welcomes the applications from all qualified candidates. As an equal opportunity employer, the Group promotes an inclusive and diverse work environment.
Salary : $100,000 - $120,000