Head of Accounting Policy & Technical Accounting

Under limited direction and with a high degree of autonomy, serves as the primary subject matter expert for accounting policy, technical accounting research, and accounting support for new products and business initiatives, as well as acquisitions. Oversees the team responsible for researching, interpreting, and applying accounting guidance to complex transactions and emerging business activities while ensuring consistent application of accounting standards across the organization. Leads the development and maintenance of the Company's accounting policy framework, evaluates the accounting implications of new products and strategic initiatives, and provides guidance on the implementation of new accounting standards. Partners closely with Financial Reporting, Treasury, Legal, Tax, Risk, Product, and business leaders to support informed business decisions and appropriate accounting outcomes. Acts as a key liaison with external auditors regarding technical accounting matters and serves as a trusted advisor to Finance leadership on complex accounting issues.

Responsibilities

Research complex accounting issues and develop well-supported accounting conclusions; Interpret accounting guidance issued by FASB, SEC, and other regulatory bodies, as well as related accounting firm interpretations; Prepare and maintain technical accounting memoranda, accounting position papers, and supporting documentation; Provide accounting consultations for unusual, non-routine, or complex transactions; Analyze proposed transactions and contracts to determine appropriate accounting treatment; Monitor emerging accounting pronouncements and industry developments affecting the organization; Serve as Accounting's representative in new product approval and governance processes; Assess accounting implications of new products, business initiatives, strategic transactions, and changes in business practices; Partner with business leaders, Legal, Treasury, Risk, and Finance teams to identify accounting, reporting, operational, and control impacts of new offerings; Provide accounting guidance during product design and implementation; Identify and document accounting requirements for new products prior to launch; Support strategic growth initiatives by providing timely accounting analysis and recommendations; Monitor new accounting standards and evaluate organizational impacts; Lead technical accounting assessments related to new accounting guidance; Develop implementation plans and coordinate adoption activities; Communicate accounting and reporting implications to stakeholders and Finance leadership; Support operational implementation of accounting changes across affected business functions; Lead the development, maintenance, and governance of the Company's accounting policies; Establish and maintain accounting policy documentation supporting consistent application of U.S. GAAP; Draft, update, and communicate accounting policies, interpretations, and implementation guidance; Evaluate existing policies and recommend enhancements; Develop training and educational materials supporting policy implementation and awareness; Lead efforts to identify and engage third-party specialists to perform valuation of acquired assets and liabilities; Lead documentation of the firm's controls over acquisitions; Support firm due diligence procedures; Support external audit reviews of technical accounting positions and conclusions; Coordinate responses to auditor inquiries related to technical accounting matters; Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to facilitate effective accounting consultations; Present accounting conclusions and recommendations to senior Finance leadership; Ensure technical accounting decisions are appropriately documented and governed; Lead team responsible for technical accounting projects and initiatives; Mentor and develop accounting professionals; Promote a culture of technical excellence, continuous learning, and collaboration; Engage with and educate others throughout finance and RJF

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting; CPA (Certified Public Accountant); Minimum 10 years of accounting experience; Significant experience in technical accounting research and accounting policy development; Knowledge of U.S. GAAP and FASB Accounting Standards Codification; Knowledge of SEC reporting and disclosure requirements; Knowledge of accounting policy governance practices; Knowledge of technical accounting research methodologies; Knowledge of financial services products and transactions; Knowledge of internal controls and corporate governance principles; Knowledge of acquisition accounting; Skill in technical accounting research and analysis; Skill in preparing accounting memoranda and position papers; Skill in interpreting accounting standards and regulatory guidance; Skill in evaluating new product and transaction accounting impacts; Skill in presenting technical conclusions to executive leadership and auditors; Skill in building partnerships across business and support functions; Ability to apply accounting guidance to complex business situations; Ability to communicate technical concepts in a practical and understandable manner; Ability to influence accounting decisions through sound analysis and recommendations; Ability to manage multiple complex assignments simultaneously; Ability to exercise sound professional judgment in areas requiring interpretation; Ability to establish credibility with business leaders, auditors, and Finance leadership

Nice to have

Public accounting experience strongly preferred; Experience with acquisition accounting preferred; Experience supporting new products, complex transactions, or strategic initiatives preferred; Financial services industry experience preferred

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage; Life insurance; Critical illness insurance and accident insurance; Disability benefits; Retirement savings; Paid time off (including vacation, holidays, and sick leave); Parental leave