What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Accounting Officer position at The Cook & Boardman Recruiting Team?
The Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) is responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance. This executive role ensures the integrity of financial information, implements robust internal controls, and supports strategic decision-making. The CAO will lead the accounting team and work closely with the CFO, executive leadership, and stakeholders to drive financial performance and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & Compliance:
Oversee the preparation and accuracy of financial statements in compliance with GAAP, IFRS, and other regulatory requirements.
Maintain compliance with tax regulations, audits, and financial disclosures.
Implement and monitor internal controls to prevent fraud and financial misstatements.
Accounting Operations & Internal Controls:
Lead all aspects of general accounting, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and financial closing processes.
Ensure strong internal controls, policies, and procedures to enhance financial integrity.
Manage financial audits and liaise with external auditors, regulators, and tax authorities.
Oversee ERP system integration and process automation for efficiency.
Strategic Leadership & Business Support:
Serve as a strategic partner to the CFO and executive team in financial planning and decision-making.
Provide financial insights and recommendations to support company growth and profitability.
Lead initiatives to optimize working capital, cost management, and operational efficiencies.
Monitor financial trends, risks, and opportunities, ensuring proactive financial strategies.
Team Leadership & Development:
Manage and mentor the accounting team, fostering a high-performance culture.
Develop training programs to enhance team expertise in financial reporting and compliance.
Qualifications & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master’s/MBA preferred).
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) required; Chartered Accountant (CA) or CMA a plus.
10 years of progressive accounting leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a senior executive role.
Strong knowledge of GAAP, SOX compliance, and financial regulations.
Experience with Private Equity preferred.
Expertise in ERP systems (Dynamics 365) and other financial automation tools.
Skills & Competencies:
Strong analytical, strategic, and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
High integrity, accountability, and commitment to financial excellence.
Work Environment & Location:
This role is based in Winston Salem, NC and is in office 5 days a week.
Qualification Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EOE Minorities/Females/Disability/Veterans; VEVRAA Federal Contractor
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.
