JOB DESCRIPTION

The Lead Accountant is a critical client-facing role, responsible for managing a portfolio of complex client accounts while serving as the primary point of contact and financial lead for each engagement.

This individual will serve as:

• A team lead, guiding and supporting Associates through effective delegation, review, and ongoing development to ensure strong execution and continuous improvement.
• A hands-on accounting expert, owning the full accounting lifecycle across multiple client accounts, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and high-quality financial deliverables.

This role requires a strong project management mindset to proactively track, delegate, and complete tasks across multiple client accounts.

We are seeking a highly proactive and detail-oriented professional who thrives in fast-paced, multi-client environments, can confidently interact with clients, and brings both strong technical accounting expertise and problem-solving capabilities.

The Lead Accountant will play a key role in maintaining service excellence, improving internal processes, and supporting the continued growth and scalability of the firm.

This role does not include formal people management responsibilities but requires strong project management of Associates, ensuring deliverables are completed accurately, on time, and aligned with client expectations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned client accounts (8–10 on average).
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through consistent, proactive communication.
• Manage client expectations, timelines, and deliverables with professionalism and confidence.

Accounting Ownership & Execution

• Oversee full-cycle accounting processes including reconciliations, AP/AR, general ledger, and financial reporting.
• Ensure all deliverables are accurate, timely, and aligned with internal quality standards.
• Handle complex accounting issues and independently troubleshoot discrepancies.

Review & Quality Control

• Review work completed by Associates on a regular (weekly) basis to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Provide feedback and corrections to maintain high-quality client deliverables.
• Ensure adherence to established SOPs and continuously update documentation as needed.

Delegation & Mentorship

• Delegate and oversee work performed by Associates, ensuring timely and accurate completion of all deliverables.
• Act as the project manager for assigned accounts, holding Associates accountable for deadlines and quality standards.
• Hold Associates accountable for deadlines and proactively follow up on task completion before delays occur.
• Ensure no deliverables fall through the cracks by actively monitoring workflows and timelines.
• Review Associate work, identify issues, and provide clear direction for corrections or improvements.
• Maintain full ownership of client relationships while coordinating execution through Associates.

Client Onboarding & Systems Integration

• Lead onboarding processes for new clients, including data migration and system setup.
• Manage integrations across accounting, payroll, and POS systems (e.g., QuickBooks, Gusto, ADP, Square).
• Ensure seamless transition and accuracy during onboarding phases.

Project & Deadline Management

• Manage multiple client timelines simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met proactively.
• Monitor task progress and hold Associates accountable for timely completion.
• Anticipate potential delays and take corrective action early.
• Process Improvement & Operational Excellence
• Identify opportunities to improve workflows, efficiency, and scalability.
• Contribute to refining internal processes and best practices.
• Maintain strong documentation and ensure consistency across client accounts.

Proactive Problem Solving

• Independently identify and resolve accounting and operational challenges.
• Demonstrate ownership and initiative in addressing client and internal issues.
• Adapt quickly to changing client needs and evolving systems.

REQUIREMENTS

• 5+ years of hands-on accounting experience (full-cycle / full-charge accounting).
• Proven experience managing multiple clients simultaneously (CAS or similar environment).
• Strong proficiency in QuickBooks.
• Experience with reconciliations, AP/AR, and general ledger management.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate directly with clients in a professional and confident manner.
• Experience delegating work and guiding junior team members.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Proactive mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities.

NICE TO HAVE

• Experience within Client Accounting Services (CAS) in a public accounting firm.
• Exposure to a variety of industries and client types (including nonprofit).
• Experience with system integrations (POS, payroll, e-commerce platforms).
• QuickBooks certification (preferred but not required).
• Experience working in high-growth or fast-paced environments.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., QuickBooks certification) are a plus.
• CPA designation is not required and not a primary focus for this role.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

• Base salary: $70,000 – $80,000 USD annually

 WORKING CONDITIONS

• Fully remote position.
• No location restrictions; must be able to work Eastern Standard Time (EST) hours.
• Fast-paced, client-driven environment requiring strong time management and responsiveness.

BENEFITS

• Medical / Dental / Vision.
• 401k Matching.
• Paid Holidays (all major).
• PTO & Sick Time.
• 100% Remote (work from home).