Jennie Joiner with The Forum Group PNW is assisting a growing international organization who is seeking an experienced Head of Accounting to lead its North American accounting operations. This role oversees accounting, financial reporting, and procurement support functions for operations in the United States and Canada. The Head of Accounting will serve as the primary local financial leader, responsible for ensuring accurate financial reporting, strengthening internal processes, and developing a high-performing accounting team. This role partners closely with global leadership and plays a key role in improving operational efficiency and financial transparency as the organization continues to scale. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance leader who enjoys process improvement, operational accounting, and building strong teams within a collaborative and international environment.

Position Overview

The Head of Accounting is responsible for overseeing all local accounting operations and financial reporting for North American operations. This position ensures the accuracy, timeliness, and compliance of financial records while supporting efficient administrative and operational processes.

This role leads the Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Procurement teams and serves as the primary local contact for global finance leadership. The position focuses on accounting operations, reporting, and process excellence while global leadership manages financial analysis, enterprise risk, and strategic financial planning.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Leadership & Oversight

• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting and procurement staff
• Oversee general ledger activity, reconciliations, and financial reporting
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes
• Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP, tax regulations, and internal policies
• Implement and monitor internal controls to ensure audit readiness
• Evaluate team structure, processes, and operational effectiveness

Financial Reporting

• Prepare accurate financial reports for global leadership
• Provide visibility into key financial metrics such as cash flow, AP/AR aging, and operational costs
• Support external audits, tax filings, and banking relationships
• Monitor HR-related financial costs in collaboration with HR leadership

Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable Management

• Oversee vendor payment cycles, expense reimbursements, and AP reconciliations
• Ensure timely invoicing and collections while resolving AR discrepancies
• Monitor working capital and cash flow impacts

Supply Chain & Procurement Support

• Provide oversight and financial guidance to purchasing and logistics functions
• Ensure purchase order accuracy and vendor compliance
• Support collaboration between finance, procurement, and operations
• Ensure vendor contract compliance and payment terms
• Assist with tax, tariff, and customs considerations related to procurement

Process Improvement & Operational Support

• Identify and implement improvements in accounting and operational processes
• Support ERP system improvements and potential system implementations
• Partner with cross-functional teams to improve financial visibility and operational efficiency
• Support intercompany reporting and cross-border financial operations

Leadership & Strategic Environment

This position operates within an international organization supported by a global finance structure. The Head of Accounting collaborates closely with global finance leadership while maintaining local ownership of accounting operations.

The role also provides the opportunity to work with external finance consultants and global leadership to build stronger financial processes and systems as the organization continues to scale.

Qualifications

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience
• 5+ years in a senior accounting or finance leadership role
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements
• Experience managing accounting teams and cross-functional collaboration
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Preferred Experience

• Experience in manufacturing, operations, or inventory-based environments
• Experience with ERP systems and financial system implementations
• Experience supporting multi-state tax reporting
• Experience supporting procurement or supply chain operations

Team Structure

This role currently leads a team of four including:

• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Accounts Receivable Clerk
• Procurement/Supply Chain staff
• Accounting Assistant

Work Environment

• Collaborative, team-oriented workplace
• Business casual office environment
• Flexible work schedule within standard business hours
• Hybrid flexibility available (up to one remote day per week)

Travel

• Occasional international travel may be required for collaboration with global teams