Accounting Manager

Franchise FastLane is the #1 Franchise Sales Organization (FSO) in the country, recognized several times by Inc. 5000. We work with a select group of franchisors to perfect their discovery process, generate qualified franchisee leads, drive responsible growth, and empower entrepreneurs to build successful businesses. The Role The Accounting Manager is responsible for managing the day-to-day accounting functions and supporting the financial reporting needs of the organization. Working closely with the Vice President of Finance, this role helps ensure the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of the company's financial records and reporting while supporting strategic financial initiatives and organizational growth. This position serves as a key contributor to the Finance team, leading the month-end close process, financial statement preparation, technical accounting research, account reconciliations, and compliance efforts. The Accounting Manager will partner with the VP of Finance on budgeting, forecasting, audits, process improvements, and financial analysis while helping to develop scalable accounting processes, reporting capabilities, and internal controls. The ideal candidate is a technically strong accounting professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex accounting issues, and has a passion for delivering accurate financial information that supports sound business decision‑making. Key Responsibilities Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and consolidated annual financial statements and management reporting packages. Analyze financial results and provide variance explanations against budget, forecast, and prior periods. Develop and maintain financial reporting schedules and supporting documentation. Ensure consistency and accuracy in financial reporting across all business entities. Assist in coordinating the preparation of recurring financial reporting deliverables for leadership. Support ad hoc financial reporting and analysis requests from leadership as needed. Technical Accounting & Compliance Evaluate and document accounting treatment for new business initiatives, contracts, and revenue streams. Develop, maintain, and enhance accounting policies and procedures. Ensure compliance with company accounting policies, reporting requirements, and internal controls. Support external audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting requirements. General Accounting Operations Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting. Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules. Ensure all balance sheet accounts are reconciled and appropriately supported. Maintain the integrity and accuracy of the general ledger. Monitor and improve accounting processes to increase efficiency and scalability. Coordinate with external accounting partners and service providers as needed. Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis Partner with the VP of Finance in the development of annual budgets, forecasts, and financial plans. Prepare supporting schedules, analyses, and reporting used in forecasting and planning process. Analyze budget-to-actual and forecast-to-actual variances and provide recommendations for management review. Monitor key financial metrics and identify trends, risks, and opportunities. Support financial modeling and analysis efforts that inform strategic decision making. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and HR teams to ensure accurate financial reporting and alignment of business initiatives. Provide accounting guidance related to customer contracts, vendor agreements, commissions, and operational matters. Assist business leaders in understanding financial results and operational impacts. Systems & Process Improvement Identify opportunities to automate and streamline accounting workflows and reporting processes. Support accounting system enhancements, integrations, and reporting improvements. Drive process documentation and establish best practices to support company growth. Maintain strong internal controls and recommend improvements where needed. Leadership & Team Development Provide guidance and oversight to accounting team members and support staff as applicable. Review accounting work for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with company policies. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, collaboration, and customer service. Serve as a trusted resource and business partner across the organization. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance. 5+ years of progressive accounting experience. Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements. Experience managing month-end close and financial statement preparation. Advanced Excel and financial analysis skills. Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Preferred Public accounting experience. Experience in a high‑growth, private‑equity‑backed, professional services, or franchising environment. Experience with ERP/accounting systems and business intelligence reporting tools. Prior leadership or team management experience. #J-18808-Ljbffr