Head of Accounting Policy

Numbers tell stories. Policies decide how those stories are written.

We are seeking a technically sharp, deeply knowledgeable Head of Accounting Policy to serve as the organization’s authoritative voice on U.S. GAAP, accounting interpretation, and financial reporting governance. This role sits at the intersection of strategy and compliance, translating complex guidance into practical application while safeguarding the integrity of our financial statements.

Based in Walnut Creek, CA, this leader will shape accounting policy across the enterprise, partner closely with executive leadership, and serve as a trusted advisor during transactions, new product initiatives, and regulatory developments.

Position Overview

The Head of Accounting Policy is responsible for establishing, documenting, and overseeing company-wide accounting policies in alignment with U.S. GAAP, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices. This role ensures technical accuracy, consistency in application, and proactive assessment of emerging accounting standards.

You will lead the interpretation of new guidance, draft formal accounting memos, manage external auditor relationships on technical matters, and provide strategic accounting insight to senior leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Serve as the company’s subject matter expert on U.S. GAAP and complex accounting matters

Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements (FASB/SEC guidance)

Author technical accounting memoranda supporting significant transactions and judgments

Lead accounting policy development and maintain formal documentation framework

Provide guidance on revenue recognition, consolidations, fair value, lease accounting, business combinations, and other complex areas

Partner with Finance, FP&A, Tax, Treasury, and Legal on cross-functional initiatives

Support M&A activities, including purchase accounting and technical position assessments

Interface with external auditors and regulators on technical accounting matters

Ensure internal controls align with accounting policy and reporting standards

Present accounting conclusions clearly to executive leadership and audit committee

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (Master’s preferred)

CPA required

12+ years of progressive accounting experience

Strong technical background in public accounting (Big Four or national firm experience preferred)

Deep knowledge of U.S. GAAP and SEC reporting requirements

Proven experience drafting and defending technical accounting positions

Experience supporting M&A transactions and complex business arrangements

Strong analytical, documentation, and presentation skills

Leadership Profile

The ideal candidate is intellectually rigorous, precise, and confident in navigating ambiguity. You are comfortable dissecting a new accounting standard line by line, then translating it into operational clarity. You balance conservatism with practicality and communicate technical conclusions with authority and composure.

Why This Role

This is a highly visible executive-level opportunity to define accounting policy strategy for a sophisticated organization in Walnut Creek, CA. You will influence reporting integrity, guide leadership through technical complexity, and ensure the financial narrative stands on solid ground.

If you believe accounting is both science and stewardship, this role was built for you.