CAO - Chief Accounting Officer

Our client is seeking an experienced and hands-on Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) to lead a growing accounting organization and drive operational excellence across the finance function. This executive will oversee all accounting operations, financial reporting, close management, internal controls, and accounting process transformation while ensuring compliance with U.S. GAAP and company policies.The ideal candidate combines deep technical accounting expertise with strong leadership capabilities and a proven track record of building scalable accounting organizations, improving processes, strengthening controls, and supporting growth through acquisitions and system integration initiatives.Key ResponsibilitiesAccounting Leadership & Close ManagementLead, mentor, and develop the accounting organization, establishing accountability, consistency, and high-performance standards.Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, including journal entries, reconciliations, consolidations, and financial statement preparation.Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP and maintain strong accounting policies and procedures.Manage multi-entity accounting structures, intercompany transactions, and consolidations.Provide strategic leadership across domestic and offshore accounting teams.Drive accounting excellence through effective talent development, performance management, and succession planning.Process Improvement & Internal ControlsAssess current accounting processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, scalability, and accuracy.Standardize accounting procedures across the organization and acquired entities.Improve close timelines, reconciliation processes, and reporting accuracy.Develop and maintain documentation, policies, procedures, and process controls.Identify control deficiencies and implement sustainable process improvements.Financial Reporting & ComplianceEnsure timely and accurate preparation of GAAP-compliant financial statements and management reporting.Oversee balance sheet reconciliations, variance analysis, and overall reporting integrity.Lead external audit activities, including audit preparation, PBC coordination, and resolution of audit findings.Ensure compliance with accounting standards, tax requirements, lending agreements, and reporting obligations.Collaborate closely with FP&A leadership to align financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and business performance metrics.M&A, Systems & Integration SupportSupport acquisition activity, including acquisition accounting, purchase accounting, opening balance sheets, and post-acquisition integration.Establish consistent accounting policies and reporting practices across acquired businesses.Oversee ERP environments and ensure accurate integration between operational systems and the general ledger.Partner with executive and operational leadership to support growth initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.Drive system and process enhancements that improve reporting capabilities and scalability.