Manager, Operational Accounting POST NUMBER: 456347

Manager of Operational Accounting & Compliance
Fairfield County, CT – On-site

Compensation: $100k (depending on experience)

Company offers: Strong benefits package, 40-hour work week with limited overtime, opportunities for involvement across community.

Position Summary:
One of Vaco’s clients is seeking an experienced and hands-on

Manager of Operational Accounting to oversee daily accounting operations, mentor junior team members, and ensure compliance with institutional policies and GAAP standards. This individual will serve as both a leader and collaborator—providing direction, guidance, and support while maintaining an active role in financial operations.

The ideal candidate has experience in non-profit or education accounting, a strong general accounting background, and a passion for mentoring staff. This role is well-suited for someone who thrives in a project management capacity, ensuring deadlines are met while fostering a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities:
· Manage day-to-day accounting operations including general ledger, reconciliations, journal entries, and financial reporting.
· Oversee month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timeliness and accuracy.
· Develop, maintain, and enforce accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to support compliance and best practices.
· Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.
· Prepare and file tax and compliance reports, including IRS Form 990, 990-T, and state filings.
· Stay current with changes in accounting standards and higher education regulations, advising leadership on impacts.
· Provide mentorship and leadership to junior accounting staff, fostering professional growth and accountability.
· Support ad hoc financial projects, process improvements, and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; CPA or MBA preferred but not required.
· 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience
· Direct people management experience with proven ability to mentor and develop staff.
· Strong knowledge of GAAP and not-for-profit accounting standards.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
· Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with a hands-on management style.
· Strong project management skills with the ability to meet deadlines and move processes forward.

Determining compensation for this role (and others) at Vaco/Highspring depends upon a wide array of factors including but not limited to the individual’s skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, office location and other geographic considerations, as well as other business and organizational needs. With that said, as required by local law in geographies that require salary range disclosure, Vaco/Highspring notes the salary range for the role is noted in this job posting. The individual may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, and can participate in medical, dental, and vision benefits as well as the company’s 401(k) retirement plan.