Role Overview for Chief Accounting Officer with a Public Energy Company – Denver, CO
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, publicly traded energy company in its search for a strategic and technically proficient Chief Accounting Officer (CAO). Based in the vibrant energy hub of Denver, Colorado, this executive leadership role is a cornerstone of the organization’s financial integrity and strategic growth. The CAO will serve as the principal accounting executive, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and will be responsible for the entire scope of the company’s accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal control environment.
This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned accounting leader to make a significant impact within a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on yet strategic leader, capable of managing the complexities of a public entity within the demanding energy sector. You will be the ultimate authority on all accounting matters, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of financial information that is critical for executive decision-making, investor relations, and regulatory compliance.
You will lead a talented team of accounting professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As a key member of the finance leadership team, you will not only oversee historical reporting but also provide critical insights that shape the company’s future financial trajectory. Your expertise will be pivotal in navigating complex transactions, implementing new accounting standards, and scaling the accounting function to support the company’s ambitious growth plans.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Accounting Officer with a Public Energy Company – Denver, CO
The Chief Accounting Officer will have a broad and challenging mandate, overseeing all aspects of the accounting function. Key responsibilities include:
SEC Reporting and Compliance
Lead the accurate and timely preparation and filing of all external financial reports, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and the annual proxy statement. Ensure all disclosures are in full compliance with SEC regulations and U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Financial Operations Leadership
Direct and control all accounting activities, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed asset accounting, and treasury operations. Drive efficiency and accuracy across all transactional processes.
Internal Controls and SOX Compliance
Maintain, evaluate, and enhance the company’s internal control framework over financial reporting. Ensure robust Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance, including documentation, testing, and remediation of any identified deficiencies.
Technical Accounting Expertise
Serve as the company’s primary subject matter expert on complex technical accounting issues. Proactively research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements and standards, assessing their impact on the company’s financial statements. This includes specialized areas relevant to the energy sector, such as revenue recognition, asset retirement obligations (AROs), and derivative accounting.
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global accounting organization. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and create development opportunities to build a world-class team. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
Month-End and Year-End Close
Oversee the entire financial close process, ensuring it is completed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule. Implement process improvements to shorten the close cycle while enhancing the quality of financial data.
External Audit Management
Act as the primary point of contact for the company’s independent external auditors. Manage the quarterly reviews and the annual financial audit process, ensuring a smooth and effective audit with minimal disruption to the business.
Executive and Board Collaboration
Partner closely with the CFO, CEO, and other members of the executive team. Prepare and present financial information and accounting matters to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, providing clear and concise explanations.
Tax Strategy and Compliance
Oversee the company’s tax function, including federal, state, and local tax compliance, planning, and strategy. Work with internal and external tax advisors to optimize the company’s tax position.
Systems and Process Improvement
Continuously evaluate and improve accounting systems, policies, and procedures to increase efficiency and scalability. Drive initiatives to leverage technology, such as ERP systems and automation tools, to streamline operations.
M&A and Special Projects
Provide accounting leadership for mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and other strategic transactions. Oversee due diligence, purchase accounting, and integration of acquired entities.
Requirements for the Chief Accounting Officer with a Public Energy Company – Denver, CO
The successful candidate will be a distinguished accounting professional with a proven track record of leadership in a complex, public company environment. The specific qualifications we are seeking include:
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in Accounting (MAcc) or an MBA is highly preferred.
Professional Certification
An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory for this role.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Corporate Controller, VP of Accounting, or existing CAO) within a complex organization.
Public Company Expertise
Demonstrable and extensive experience working for a U.S. publicly traded company is essential. This must include deep, hands-on experience with SEC reporting (10-K, 10-Q) and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance.
Industry Background
Significant experience within the energy industry (e.g., oil & gas, renewables, utilities, or related services) is strongly preferred. Familiarity with the unique accounting and financial challenges of this sector is a major asset.
Technical Acumen
Expert-level knowledge of U.S. GAAP and technical accounting research. Proven ability to analyze and implement complex accounting standards.
Leadership and Management
A proven history of successfully leading, managing, and developing large, high-performing accounting teams. The ability to inspire, motivate, and mentor is critical.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills. The ability to communicate complex accounting concepts clearly and effectively to a wide range of audiences, including the executive team and the Board of Directors.
Strategic Mindset
The ability to think strategically and act as a true business partner to the CFO and other leaders, providing financial insights that drive business performance.
Systems Proficiency
Experience with large-scale ERP systems (such as SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite) and proficiency with financial reporting and consolidation tools.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
Incentive Programs
Eligibility for a significant annual performance-based bonus and a substantial long-term incentive plan (LTI) with equity components.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to company-paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates moving to the Denver area.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to professional development, including support for continuing professional education (CPE) and industry conferences.
Executive Perks
Additional executive-level benefits and wellness programs designed to support your well-being.
How to Apply
If you are a driven, strategic, and accomplished accounting leader who meets the qualifications outlined above and are ready to take on a pivotal role in a leading public energy company, we encourage you to apply. This is a confidential search being conducted by JRG Partners.
To express your interest, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information or to explore other executive opportunities, please visit the JRG Partners’ Accounting & Finance practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
