Accounting Manager

We are looking for an experienced Accounting Manager to join a financial services organization in Upland, California on a contract (potential contract to hire) basis. This position will lead core accounting activities, support timely and accurate reporting, and help maintain strong compliance and control standards within a banking environment. The role works closely with cross-functional partners to ensure financial information is reliable, deadlines are met, and accounting processes continue to operate effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Direct day-to-day accounting activities, including oversight of general ledger maintenance, journal entry review, and account reconciliation processes.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close cycles to ensure accurate results and timely completion of reporting deadlines.
• Prepare and evaluate financial statements and management reports, identifying issues, trends, and areas requiring follow-up.
• Maintain adherence to applicable banking requirements, accounting standards, and internal governance practices.
• Assess and enhance internal control procedures related to financial reporting to reduce risk and improve accuracy.
• Review balance sheet accounts regularly, investigate variances, and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Partner with internal and external auditors, as well as regulatory reviewers, by providing documentation, explanations, and accounting support.
• Supervise accounting team members by assigning work, offering guidance, and supporting career development.
• Collaborate with treasury, lending, finance, and operations teams to address accounting questions and improve coordination across functions.
• Contribute to budgeting, forecasting, process enhancement efforts, and accounting-related system or automation initiatives as needed.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 7 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within banking or financial services.
• Prior experience leading or supervising accounting staff and managing workflow across key accounting functions.
• Strong understanding of month-end close, general ledger activity, journal entries, and account reconciliation practices.
• Experience supporting financial statement audits and working within a controlled reporting environment.
• Knowledge of financial reporting principles, internal controls, and compliance expectations in regulated organizations.
• Proficiency with accounting systems and advanced Excel skills for analysis, reporting, and reconciliation tasks.