Specialist, Accounting - Close Operations

Job Conditions As a team member in Finance at Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company with nearly $70 billion in annual sales, you will support the monthly, quarterly, and year‑end closing process and learn about closing automation. This hybrid position is located in Columbus, Ohio, requires attendance in the office two days per week, and does not qualify for employer sponsored work authorization. Job Description Summary As a Specialist you will plan, coordinate, and perform complex accounting functions, acquiring, evaluating, and analyzing financial data to prepare financial documents for regulatory and internal stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Lead the establishment and implementation of new or revised accounting policies and procedures. Prepare and analyze sophisticated financial and regulatory statements. Develop and submit essential accounting and financial transactions for accurate reporting. Ensure completeness and accuracy of reports, forms, and data for internal and external clients. Recommend management actions or alternatives when analysis reveals unfavorable trends or deviations. Keep informed of changes to GAAP and regulatory requirements affecting reporting. Suggest improvements to enhance job performance, processing or workflow. Lead development of new and enhanced systems and processes within the assigned area. Prepare complex pro forma financial data for compliance with new requirements. Assist management in applying financial data to solve operating problems. Prepare state and supplemental reporting requirements. Provide complex financial information to auditors, IRS, state examiners, and other agencies. Prepare special reports and presentations. Act as a group leader on selected projects for other accountants. Other Responsibilities May include additional duties assigned by management. Reporting Relationships Reports to the Accounting Manager or Director. Education and Qualification Undergraduate studies in accounting, finance, or business administration; accounting major preferred. License/Certification Progress toward CPA preferred. Experience Four to six years of related accounting experience; insurance experience preferred. Knowledge, Abilities and Skills Experience with GAAP/STAT, complex financial statement preparation, taxation, accounting systems, and regulatory requirements. Strong verbal and written communication, analytical problem‑solving, project management, and computer proficiency. Ability to interpret financial reporting changes and impact on policies. Values and Work Environment Consistently demonstrates Nationwide Values. Normal office environment with occasional extended hours during high volume periods. ADA & Background Check Job requires valid credit and/or background check. Duties may include a somewhat different combination of duties as needed. Benefits Medical, dental, vision; life insurance; short and long‑term disability; paid time off (including new hires 18 days prorated), 9 paid holidays, 8 hours Lifetime PTO, 8 hours Unity Day PTO; 401(k) with company match; company‑paid pension; business casual attire. Additional benefits available. Equal Employment Opportunity Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment. Nationwide prohibits employment discrimination on protected characteristics as required by law. Salary Range National salary range for Specialist, Accounting: $79,500.00–$148,500.00. Expected starting salary range: $79,500.00–$119,500.00. #J-18808-Ljbffr Nationwide