Role Overview for Chief Accounting Officer with a Public FinServ Firm – Charlotte, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, publicly traded financial services firm in their search for a distinguished Chief Accounting Officer (CAO). Located in the thriving financial hub of Charlotte, North Carolina, our client is a leader in their sector, known for innovation, stability, and a commitment to excellence. This is a rare and compelling opportunity for a seasoned accounting executive to assume a critical leadership role within a dynamic and growing organization.
The CAO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). You will be the principal authority on all accounting matters, responsible for the integrity of the company’s financial records, the accuracy of its financial reporting, and the strength of its internal control environment. This strategic role extends beyond traditional accounting functions; you will be a trusted advisor to the CFO and other senior executives, providing critical insights that shape business strategy and drive financial performance.
The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with an impeccable track record in public company accounting, a deep understanding of the financial services industry, and the ability to inspire a high-performing team. You will be tasked with steering the accounting function through continued growth, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and championing a culture of continuous improvement and unwavering ethical standards. This position demands a professional with exceptional technical skills, strategic acumen, and the executive presence to effectively communicate with the Board of Directors, investors, and regulatory bodies.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Accounting Officer with a Public FinServ Firm – Charlotte, NC
The Chief Accounting Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, overseeing all aspects of the accounting function. Your leadership will be pivotal in ensuring the company meets its financial, regulatory, and strategic objectives. Key duties include:
SEC Reporting and Compliance
Spearhead the timely and accurate preparation and filing of all external financial reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and proxy statements. Ensure all disclosures are comprehensive, transparent, and in full compliance with SEC regulations and US GAAP.
Financial Close and Consolidation
Direct the global accounting team in executing a precise and efficient monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process. Oversee the consolidation of all domestic and international entities, ensuring accuracy and adherence to strict deadlines.
Technical Accounting Leadership
Serve as the company’s foremost expert on complex technical accounting matters. Proactively research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements from the FASB and other regulatory bodies. Author and maintain robust accounting policies and memos to document the company’s positions on intricate transactions and new standards.
Internal Controls and SOX
Uphold and enhance a world-class internal control environment over financial reporting. Lead the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) 404 compliance program, including risk assessment, control design, testing, and remediation. Foster a culture of accountability and control consciousness throughout the organization.
Audit Management
Act as the primary point of contact and manage the relationship with the company’s independent external auditors. Oversee the planning, execution, and successful completion of the annual financial audit and quarterly reviews, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.
Team Leadership and Development
Lead, mentor, and cultivate a large, high-caliber accounting organization. Set clear objectives, provide regular coaching and feedback, and foster professional growth opportunities. Promote a collaborative and inclusive team culture that attracts and retains top talent.
Process Optimization and System Enhancement
Continuously evaluate and improve accounting processes, workflows, and systems to drive efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. Champion the adoption of new financial technologies and automation to streamline operations and enhance analytical capabilities.
Strategic Business Partnership
Collaborate closely with the CFO, FP&A, Treasury, Tax, and other business leaders to provide financial insights and support strategic initiatives. Play a key role in the financial due diligence and integration of potential M&A activities.
Board and Audit Committee Interaction
Prepare and present clear, concise financial information and accounting updates to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Confidently address inquiries and provide expert counsel on complex financial reporting and control matters.
Requirements for the Chief Accounting Officer with a Public FinServ Firm – Charlotte, NC
This executive position requires a candidate with a distinguished career in accounting and a specific set of qualifications and experiences. The successful candidate will meet the following criteria:
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related field is highly preferred.
Certification
An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory.
Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive accounting experience, demonstrating a clear trajectory of increasing responsibility. This must include at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Corporate Controller, VP of Accounting) within a publicly traded company.
Industry Expertise
Significant and recent experience within the financial services industry (e.g., banking, asset management, insurance, fintech) is a firm requirement. The candidate must understand the unique accounting and regulatory complexities of this sector.
Public Accounting Foundation
Experience with a ‘Big 4’ or large national public accounting firm is strongly preferred, providing a foundational understanding of audit processes and best practices.
Technical Proficiency
Unquestionable expertise in U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (US GAAP), Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance, and the intricacies of SEC reporting.
Leadership Skills
Proven ability to lead, manage, and develop large, geographically dispersed teams. A track record of building a positive and high-performance culture is essential.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills. The ability to distill complex financial concepts into clear, actionable information for diverse audiences, from junior staff to the Board of Directors.
Strategic Mindset
Must be a strategic thinker with outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills. The ability to see the bigger picture and contribute to the company’s overall financial strategy is critical.
Systems Knowledge
Proficiency with sophisticated, large-scale Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP) and financial reporting tools.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A substantial equity package (e.g., Restricted Stock Units, Performance Shares) that aligns your success with the long-term growth of the company.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with wellness programs and health savings accounts (HSA).
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan featuring a generous company match to help you achieve your long-term financial goals.
Paid Time Off
A generous policy for paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company-observed holidays, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
Executive Benefits
Access to executive-level perquisites such as financial planning services, deferred compensation plans, and enhanced life and disability insurance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your continued growth, with support for executive education, industry conferences, and professional certifications.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates and their families moving to the Charlotte area.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative accounting leader who meets the stringent requirements outlined above and are ready to make a significant impact on a leading public financial services firm, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment. We invite you to explore our other opportunities in our Accounting & Finance practice area to see how we connect top talent with exceptional companies. We look forward to reviewing your application for this outstanding Chief Accounting Officer position.
