Accounting Manager (Professional Services | Washington, DC Area)

This is a unique opportunity to step into a highly visible, hands-on leadership role within a well-established, mission-driven professional services organization operating in a specialized and highly regulated niche. As the senior accounting professional, you will serve as the backbone of the firm’s financial operations, partnering closely with executive leadership to drive accuracy, insight, and operational discipline. This role offers broad exposure across all facets of accounting and finance, with the autonomy to shape processes, enhance controls, and influence key business decisions. For someone seeking ownership, impact, and a seat at the table, this position provides a clear path to becoming a trusted advisor within a respected and stable organization.

Position Overview
The Accounting Manager will oversee the full spectrum of accounting and finance operations, serving as the primary internal resource responsible for financial integrity, reporting, and compliance. This individual will manage day-to-day accounting activities while coordinating with external service providers supporting billing, audit, and tax functions. The role requires a balance of technical accounting expertise, operational execution, and the ability to communicate effectively with senior leadership. This is a highly autonomous position ideal for someone who thrives in a lean environment and enjoys owning the entire accounting function.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all core accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable oversight, cash management, and bank reconciliations
• Oversee and review work performed by outsourced partners supporting billing, collections, and select accounting processes
• Lead month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting
• Prepare internal financial statements and provide analysis to executive leadership for decision-making support
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and financial procedures
• Manage firm cash flow, banking relationships, and liquidity planning
• Oversee payroll processing and support benefits-related financial administration, including retirement plan coordination
• Monitor and enforce expense policies, including reimbursements and corporate card activity
• Ensure compliance with industry-specific regulatory and trust accounting requirements
• Coordinate annual audit and tax processes in partnership with external advisors
• Support budgeting and forecasting processes, including variance analysis and performance tracking
• Partner directly with senior leadership to provide insights on financial performance and operational efficiency

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience within professional services or a similarly complex environment
• Strong foundation in core accounting principles and financial reporting
• Experience managing or overseeing outsourced accounting, billing, or finance functions
• Familiarity with cash-based accounting environments preferred
• Exposure to payroll, benefits administration, and audit coordination
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact confidently with senior leadership
• High level of ownership, attention to detail, and ability to operate independently

Why This Role

• Opportunity to own and lead the entire accounting function within a respected, stable organization
• Direct visibility and partnership with executive leadership, influencing strategic decisions
• Broad scope across accounting, finance operations, and process improvement initiatives
• Collaborative, professional environment with a mission-driven focus and strong industry reputation