Director of Accounting and Finance

Director of Accounting and Finance Status: Full-Time

Department: Finance

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Reports To: Chief Financial Officer

Direct Reports: TBD

Date: April 19, 2024Ready to help millions of Americans overcome financial losses that can disrupt their college education? Ready to help millions of students and families protect their investment in higher education?

GradGuard, the leading provider of innovative renters and tuition insurance programs that are embedded right into the enrollment process, is growing. To widen and strengthen the college completion safety net GradGuard provides, we’re searching for a Director of Accounting and Finance to join our team. Is it you?

Are you passionate about empowering student success? Do you love working with forward-thinking higher educational professionals? Do you think colleges should do everything they can to protect a student’s financial commitment against risk? If you said yes to all those things, and you’re a collaborative and detail oriented go-getter who owns their success, read on. About GradGuard

Higher education is often the biggest financial commitment a student will make. We help higher education institutions protect that commitment from unexpected risks when it comes to rent and tuition – because students have enough to worry about. Formed in 2009, our innovative insurance platform is in place at more than 500 institutions nationwide, serving more than 1.3 million students. Our platform eliminates millions of dollars in tuition and fee losses incurred annually due to student accidents and late student withdrawals.

Why Join Us?

We’ve got processes that work, and products people want. We’ve also cultivated a company culture based on three words: Respect. Grow. Thrive. Our unique workplace unites high tech, higher education, and our people around our mission. All we need is you.

Your Most Critical Outcome

The Director of Accounting & Finance plays a crucial leadership role within an organization's financial management team. This position is responsible for overseeing and directing all aspects of the accounting department, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial records and reports. The primary goal of the Director of Accounting & Finance is to safeguard the company's financial health, maintain transparency, and support informed decision-making by senior management and stakeholders.

Your ResponsibilitiesAccounting: Perform and manage all accounting related duties including Month End Close Process, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Balance Sheet Reconciliations, etc.Financial Reporting: Accountable for the preparation and presentation of accurate and timely financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. They ensure compliance with relevant accounting principles and standards.Budgeting and Forecasting: Collaborating with other departments, the Director of Accounting & Finance participates in the budgeting process and long-term financial planning. They analyze financial data, identify trends, and provide insights to support strategic decision-making.Financial Analysis: Conducting financial analyses and performance evaluations helps the Director of Accounting & Finance identify areas for improvement, cost-saving opportunities, and revenue optimization.Internal Controls: Developing and implementing robust internal controls is essential to prevent fraud, errors, and misstatements. The Director of Accounting & Finance is responsible for establishing and monitoring internal control procedures to safeguard assets and maintain financial integrity.Audit and Compliance: Coordinating external audits and ensuring compliance with regulatory authorities, tax laws, and financial reporting standards are essential responsibilities. The Director of Accounting & Finance acts as a liaison between the company and auditors or regulators.Team Management: Leading and mentoring a team of accounting professionals is a crucial aspect of the role. The Director of Accounting & Finance ensures a skilled and motivated workforce, fosters professional development, and delegates responsibilities effectively.Technology and Systems: Staying abreast of technological advancements and implementing efficient financial systems and software is necessary to streamline processes and enhance data accuracy.Strategic Planning: Collaborating with executive management, the Director of Accounting & Finance contributes to the development of overall business strategies and financial objectives.Risk Management: Identifying financial risks and developing risk management strategies to mitigate potential threats to the organization's financial stability.Payroll Processing: Ensure timely and accurate processing of company payroll bimonthly.Tax Returns: Own and maintain compliance with income tax returns.You Bring to the Table A Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. A master's degree or CPA certification is preferred.Extensive (10+ years) experience in progressively responsible accounting and finance roles, with demonstrated leadership and managerial skills.Thorough knowledge of accounting principles, financial regulations, and compliance standards.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to interact effectively with stakeholders at all levels.Ability to handle multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a dynamic business environment.Strategic thinking and a forward-looking approach to financial management.Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft ExcelPhysical Demands/Working ConditionsTypical work environment for a professional office spaceLargely a stationary role with some moving from place to placeConstant use of a computer, keyboard, mouse, monitor and other office equipmentOccasionally picks up, carries, and moves items up to 30 lbs.Some overnight travel may be required for work, events, and trainingsGradGuard BenefitsComprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage. GradGuard pays: 100% of employee premiums 70% of dependents’ premiumsUnlimited Paid Time Off, plus paid holidaysParental Leave Flexible in-office/work-from-home philosophyEmployee Education Assistance Program401K with a company match of up to 5% of your annual compensationLong-term and Short-term disabilityTerm life insurance coverage with 100% of premiums paid for by GradGuard

Equal Opportunity Employer

GradGuard is committed to creating a diverse environment and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, religion, creed, marital status, transgender status, partnership status, familial status, national origin/ancestry, alienage or citizenship status, mental or physical disability or medical condition, handicap, military status, veteran’s status, genetic information, unemployment status, status as a victim of domestic violence, status as a victim of sex offenses or stalking, employment status, sexual or reproductive health decisions, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law (“Protected Characteristics”).