Accounting Manager

Who We Are

Peace is our commitment. The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace worldwide. We know that Peace is Security – it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing, and mitigating violent conflict.

We are an independent, non-partisan institution and are actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts worldwide. Together we tackle the most challenging problems and hold fast to the possibility of a more peaceful world. To learn more about USIP programs and job openings, go to https://www.usip.org/about/careers.

If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want to have a front-row seat on the world stage, USIP is the place for you.

TARGET SALARY

Grade 14 - $139,000 - $ 144,000

The Institute uses the General Schedule salary tables for administering compensation. Offers are determined based upon candidate qualifications, related experience, internal equity, and the amount budgeted for the position.

JOB BRIEF

The Accounting Manager will provide support in the management of day-to-day financial activities and processes related to accounts payable, receivable and audit preparedness.

Working directly with the Director of Accounting, as it relates to the management of accounts payable and receivable functions, the incumbent will ensure timely payment of vendor invoices and expense vouchers, maintain accurate records and control reports, support the monthly closing of financial records and posting of month end information, recommend improvements to the accounts payable/receivable processes, and will also support the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in developing and documenting policies and procedures.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the accounts payable process, including reviewing and approving transactions to ensure accurate coding and documentation and assisting with tracking and monitoring payments, payment cancellations, undisbursed payments and check re-issuances.
• Collaborate with the Conferences and Events Team to track and ensure the proper and timely booking and reconciliation of related revenue and expenses for USIP conferences, events, and meetings.

• Perform monthly credit card reconciliation for purchase and travel cards and other accounts as required.
• Provide timely and sound accounting assistance to program staff to assist them in making effective program planning and management decisions.
• Receive and investigate inquiries and/or complaints; review documentation and prepare responses and recommendations.

• Assist the Director of Accounting and CFO in the establishment and maintenance of effective internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure the accuracy of financial data.

• Conduct periodic assessments of internal controls and recommend improvements as needed.
• Streamline/improve the operational and financial complexities, processes, procedures, policies, and reporting.
• Develop and maintain a finance and accounting handbook.
• Assist with monthly closing of financial records and posting of month end information.
• Support travelers in obtaining petty cash as necessary and appropriate.
• Assist with 1099 processing and other tax related matters.

• Serve as primary accounting staff person, attend meetings, advise on rules, compliance and revised processes, procedures, policies and reporting requirements.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the finance team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Mentor and develop team members, ensuring their professional growth and alignment with organizational goals.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field required, Master’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience in a related field. Certification or candidacy for CPA, CGFM, or Certified Internal Auditor is a plus.
• Minimum of ten (10) years progressive experience in accounting.
• Knowledge of GAAP and understanding of nonprofit and/or federal accounting principles is required.
• Experience in developing and training policies and procedures. Ability to convey complex concepts through simplified approaches and tools.
• Knowledge of the financial management of U.S. government funded programs, particularly USAID and the Department of State is a plus.
• Understanding and use of Treasury systems (e.g., SPS, ITS, and TCIS) is a plus.
• Demonstrated history of outstanding leadership, financial stewardshi