What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Accountant – Sales Audit position at Herschend?
ABOUT US
Herschend is the world’s largest family-held themed attractions company, with a portfolio of over 40 family entertainment brands across North America, including destinations, resorts, theme parks, water parks, immersive experiences, and content enjoyed by audiences worldwide.
While each of our family brands offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our 22,000 passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service—what we call Heartspitality®—the intersection of heart and hospitality.
As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feels welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect. For more information, visit www.Herschend.com.
POSITION SUMMARY
Provides accounting and operational support to the Sales Audit Shared Services team through the accurate preparation, review, and analysis of financial data. This role ensures financial information is recorded and reported in accordance with established accounting principles, corporate policies, and internal controls. The Corporate Accountant will collaborate with internal stakeholders, support financial reporting and audit processes, and contribute to continuous improvement of accounting procedures and systems.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Contribute to a collaborative and professional work environment by maintaining respectful communication and supporting team objectives.
- Ensure financial reporting complies with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), applicable laws and regulations, and corporate accounting standards.
- Support adherence to company financial policies and procedures across Herschend subsidiaries and escalate exceptions to leadership when appropriate.
- Develop, implement, modify, and document accounting procedures and record-keeping systems using available technology and accounting tools.
- Perform account reconciliations as assigned, including:
- Reviewing general ledger account balances for accuracy.
- Gathering, analyzing, and validating financial data.
- Identifying discrepancies and recommending appropriate corrections.
- Maintain effective internal controls and support audit readiness.
- Prepare documentation and schedules for the annual external audit, as applicable.
- Classify, record, and summarize financial transactions in the company’s accounting systems.
- Prepare and record journal entries as assigned.
- Assist Sales Audit leadership with special projects, financial analyses, and management reporting requests.
- Identify opportunities to improve processes, efficiency, and accuracy within accounting operations.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support financial reporting needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
- EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field preferred.
- Minimum 2 years of accounting experience preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and spreadsheet preparation.
- Ability to learn and effectively use general ledger and financial software systems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with internal or public accounting audit preferred.
- Experience in hospitality, amusement, retail, or food service industries is a plus.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
- Demonstrates professionalism and integrity when handling confidential financial information.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
- Adaptable and able to respond effectively to changing priorities.
- Demonstrates commitment to Herschend’s service culture and organizational values.
- Ability to analyze financial data and prepare accurate accounting reports.
- Ability to use computers and accounting software to perform job duties.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based work.
- Ability to work in a professional office environment and collaborate with team members.
- Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet established deadlines.
- Ability to maintain reliable attendance and work schedules, including occasional overtime when business needs require.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of financial and proprietary information.
- Ability to operate standard office equipment (computer, phone, printer, calculator).
- Ability to perform other duties as assigned.