Regional Accounting Lead

locationsChicago, IL, UStime typeFull timeposted onPosted 5 Days Agojob requisition idR-11683The Regional Accounting Lead is responsible for being a financial steward of the firm by supporting the project accounting, project management, and North Central regional leaders across our Chicago, Minneapolis, and Detroit offices. This role provides a solid foundation of analysis for the firm's projects and business practices by managing contracts, ensuring fiscal health of assigned projects, and mentoring accounting professionals. The ideal candidate we are looking for is a collaborator with strong accounting, communication, and organizational skills. This position reports to the Regional Finance Director.What You Will DoNorthcentral Regional Finance Team LevelAs team lead, monitor the day-to-day activities of project accountants to ensure the accurate and timely close at period end.Review for general ledger coding & appropriateness, act as the final approver on Coupa expense reports, pcards, and office overhead invoices.Provide coaching and training on the Gensler toolkit, policies & procedures, best practices, and problem solving.Identify issues, research causes, identify process improvements and make recommendations to the Finance Director for consideration / approval.Utilize your solid understanding of accounting mechanics by overseeing the billing and fee management operations in the office and by ensuring that all financial activities are consistent with GAAP, company policies and procedures.Ensure that processes operate smoothly, recommend process improvements when needed, and resolve the escalation of issues and inquiries.Collaborate with colleagues on special projects that support the business.Studio/Office LevelAct as a trusted financial partner to Project Accountants and Studio Directors in assigned offices to monitor key performance metrics and strategize on how to improve.Monitor, analyze, and report on a variety of metrics at the studio level to ensure healthy business practices; become the studio leader for matters related to finance.Provide training to Project Managers regarding financial maintenance of projects through reporting systems and tools.Project LevelMaintain organized project contract files.Understand contract terms as related to compensation and scope.Assist Project Managers in performing new project due diligence as specified in the firm's project start-up and collection procedures.Document clients' procurement process to ensure efficient delivery of invoices.Interact with clients (internal and external), consultants, and colleagues in a productive and professional manner.Review project work plans, budgets, and staffing plans for appropriateness to fee.Provide accurate invoices to clients per contract terms.Coordinate consultant invoices and payments per contract terms through the Coupa system.Promote an "open door policy" to encourage communication among various teams.Train consultants on Coupa in a helpful, courteous manner.Review project labor and expense charges with Project Managers for accuracy and appropriateness.Forecast actual vs. budget spending and analyze projects to provide meaningful input to project and office leadership.Monitor studio's accounts receivable and assist Project Managers with collection efforts.Conduct regular meetings with Project Managers to review financial considerations for their projects. Identify risk items or potential gain items and routinely report them to leadership.Lead reconciliation of projects as required when issues arise, and during close out. Help project accountants with reconciliations, research issues, and advise on needed transactions to correct, as necessary.Your QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, and 5+ years' of professional experience required.Professional service firm accounting experience and AE industry experience highly preferred.Extremely organized and meticulous, with strong attention to detail.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment and produce deliverables in a timely and accurate manner.Excellent business communication, organizational, and analytical skills.Ability to communicate effectively with people from varying backgrounds, and different levels of experience, both internally and externally.Proactive and able to work effectively alone and in a team environment.Proficient in data management with strong excel skills.Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Able to respond to vendors, consultants, and staff in a timely and professional manner.Experience with international taxes and multiple currencies preferred.Ability to maintain effectiveness in a hybrid work environment.Life at GenslerAt Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well-being Week,” our offices reflect our people’s diverse interests.We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has been established based on local markets.As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.