Director- Finance

Jefferson Wells – a Sikich Company

Contract Engagement | Approx. 3 Months | $60 /hour (W2, negotiable based on experience)

Hybrid - St. Louis, MO (Hybrid)

Jefferson Wells, a Sikich Company, is seeking an experienced Interim Accounting Manager to provide leadership and operational support within a client’s finance function. This engagement requires a hands-on professional who can balance team leadership responsibilities with active involvement in financial reporting, compliance, and process oversight.

Position Overview

In this role, you will oversee key accounting processes, guide a small team, and collaborate with leadership to ensure accurate and timely financial information. You will also play a critical role in supporting budgeting, audit readiness, and ongoing financial analysis.

Key Contributions Team Leadership & Oversight

• Provide day-to-day direction to accounting staff, including assigning work, monitoring performance, and supporting development
• Participate in hiring, onboarding, and performance management activities as needed
• Foster a collaborative, accountable team culture and support cross-functional partnerships
• Contribute to internal initiatives, projects, or committees as requested
  
  

Financial Management & Operations

• Oversee core accounting functions to ensure alignment with GAAP and regulatory expectations
• Establish and refine accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Supervise accounts payable workflows, including vendor payments and purchasing processes
• Lead budget planning efforts, including preparation, monitoring, and variance analysis
• Review financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities; support forecasting and financial planning initiatives
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of monthly financial statements and supporting schedules
• Coordinate audit activities, including year-end reporting and required compliance filings
• Support preparation of regulatory cost reporting documentation (e.g., Medicare/Medicaid as applicable)
• Monitor cash activity, ensuring appropriate reconciliation and controls are in place
• Oversee fixed asset accounting, including capitalization and depreciation tracking
• Prepare and distribute financial performance reports to operational leaders and provide guidance on results
• Assist senior leadership with cost management and expense analysis initiatives
• Supervise payroll-related processes, ensuring accuracy in payroll, tax reporting, and related accounts
  
  

Business Partnership

• Serve as a finance liaison to operational teams, providing insights and actionable financial information
• Translate financial data into meaningful guidance for non-finance stakeholders
• Support special projects and ad hoc analysis as needed
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 8 years of progressive accounting experience
• Prior experience in a supervisory or leadership role strongly preferred
• Background in healthcare or not-for-profit environments is a plus
• CPA designation is a plus but not required
  
  

Skills & Expertise

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting practices
• Proven ability to manage multiple accounting functions simultaneously
• Advanced Excel capabilities and proficiency with accounting systems (experience with Great Plains and ADP Workforce Now is advantageous)
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to identify issues and implement practical solutions
• Effective communicator with the ability to present financial information clearly to diverse audiences
• Highly organized with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
• Hands-on approach with a willingness to engage in both leadership and detailed accounting tasks
• Demonstrated discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive information