Accounting Manager

ABOUT AASCU 

AASCU is the collective voice of 500 public colleges, universities, and systems that hold students and the community at the heart of their mission.  The association works to expand student access, success, and opportunity, promote world-class teaching and experiential learning tied to career advancement, and support applied research and services that advances economic development and quality of life in communities nationwide.   

ABOUT THE DIVISION 

The goal of the Division of Administration and Finance (A&F) is to provide an innovative, collaborative, cost effective support infrastructure needed to deliver on AASCU’s mission.  A&F is comprised of Information Technologies and Finance.  All employees are encouraged to think creatively about how they can address mission, member needs, and challenges that will inevitably arise from time to time.  Employees are also encouraged to engage in bold thinking, to put forward new ideas and proposals, and to openly debate the risks – upside and downside – associated with new ideas.   

EXPECTATION FOR ALL EMPLOYEES 

Supports the organization’s mission, vision and values by exhibiting the following behaviors: commitment to diversity and equity, excellence and competence, collaboration, innovation, accountability, ownership, and adherence to policies and procedures. 

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Accounting Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of AASCU’s accounting operations and financial reporting processes. This role ensures accurate financial records, timely reporting, and compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and regulatory requirements.  

The Accounting Manager oversees core accounting functions including general ledger management, accounts payable, accounts receivable, grants accounting support, and month-end close processes. The position works closely with the Vice President of Administration and Finance to maintain strong internal controls, support financial planning and analysis, and ensure the integrity of financial data across the organization.  

The successful candidate is a hands-on accounting professional with strong nonprofit accounting knowledge, experience managing accounting processes, and the ability to improve systems and procedures to support an efficient finance function.  

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Accounting Operations  

• Manage daily accounting operations including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and fixed assets.  

• Ensure financial records are maintained in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.  

• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules.  

• Lead the monthly and year-end close processes and ensure timely completion of financial reporting.  

• Maintain accurate documentation and accounting records.  

Financial Reporting  

• Prepare monthly financial statements and supporting schedules for internal leadership.  

• Assist in analyzing budget-to-actual performance and identifying key variances.  

• Support preparation of financial reporting materials for leadership and board committees.  

• Maintain accurate grant and restricted fund accounting records.  

Audit and Compliance  

• Serve as primary coordinator for the annual financial audit and assist external auditors with requested documentation.  

• Support preparation of annual tax filings including Form 990 and other required reporting.  

• Ensure compliance with financial policies, donor restrictions, and nonprofit accounting regulations.  

Budget Support  

• Assist with the annual budgeting process and department budget reviews.  

• Track organizational expenses and monitor budget-to-actual performance.  

• Support development of financial forecasts and internal financial reports.  

Cash Management  

• Assist with cash flow monitoring and preparation of short-term cash projections.  

• Reconcile operating and investment accounts.  

• Maintain accurate records of investment activity and endowment balances.  

Internal Controls and Process Improvement  

• Maintain and strengthen internal accounting controls and financial procedures.  

• Recommend improvements to accounting processes and systems to increase efficiency and accuracy.  

• Support the documentation and maintenance of finance policies and standard operating procedures.  

Team Leadership  

• Supervise accounting staff and support their professional development.  

• Provide guidance on accounting procedures and best practices.  

• Foster collaboration across departments to support effective financial management.  

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent is required.  

• 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within nonprofit organizations.  

• 3 years of supervisory or team leadership experience.  

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.  

• Experience with general ledger management, financial reporting, audit preparation, and account reconciliations.  

• Familiarity with grants accounting and donor-restricted funds preferred.  

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.  

• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively with both financial and non-financial staff.  

• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience with accounting systems.  

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS, AND LOCATION  

The salary range for this exempt position is between $110,000 and $135,000 plus a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision insurance; fifteen paid holidays plus additional annual leave; above market contribution to company sponsored 403(b) retirement plan; on-site fitness facility, 24/7 building security, secured bike storage and more. Additionally, available underground public parking is accessible for all employees at their own expense.   

This is a full-time position located at AASCU’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. AASCU employees who live within commuting distance to our offices are expected to work on a hybrid in-person work schedule of three days in the office and two days optional remote. This schedule is subject to change based on work and organizational demands.  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS   

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions, if applicable.  

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time.   

• Constantly operates a computer or laptop; however, some standing and walking may be required when attending in-office meetings or events.   

• The person in this position frequently communicates with team members via email, phone, or virtual meeting room and must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.  

• Lift and carry a minimum of 15 lbs. occasionally.   

• Occasional travel to an office/conference event.   

Salary : $110,000 - $135,000