Director, Accounting

Description

Summary

Responsible for the oversight, accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of accounting operations of the Credit Union. This role leads the monthly and annual close processes, ensures compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements, maintains strong internal controls, and oversees general ledger, accounts payable, fixed assets, and regulatory reporting functions.

This role contributes to departmental strategy and operational planning by identifying and prioritizing opportunities to strengthen processes, systems, and reporting. Partners closely with the SVP, Accounting/Controller and cross-functional partners to deliver accurate, timely financial insights that inform leadership and Board decision-making. Drives consistency, scalability, and efficiency across accounting operations while building a high-performing team and ensuring the function evolves to meet the changing needs of the Credit Union.  

Essential Functions

• Lead and develop the Accounting team, ensuring high performance, accountability, and consistent delivery of accurate and timely accounting outcomes. 
• Oversee audit readiness and regulatory examinations, ensuring documentation and processes meet all applicable GAAP, regulatory, and internal control requirements.
• Ensure accuracy and compliance of payroll accounting and related liabilities, including tax and benefit obligations).
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation and submission of regulatory reports (i.e., quarterly NCUA Call Report) maintaining compliance with all governing requirements.
• Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of balance sheet reconciliations, including oversight of general ledger reconciliation processes.
• Lead accounting operations to ensure accuracy, continuity, and effective internal controls, including appropriate process redundancy for critical functions.
• Maintain the integrity of financial data through oversight of general ledger structure, coding practices, and account accuracy.
• Partner with the SVP Accounting/Controller to deliver accurate and timely financial statements and reporting that support leadership and Board decision-making.
• Ensure appropriate accounting treatment and policy application for fixed assets, depreciation, and prepaid expenses in accordance with GAAP.
• Oversee the effectiveness, maintenance, and enhancement of the accounting system, ensuring they support operational efficiency, scalability, and reporting needs.
• Maintain deep expertise in accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and industry practices, applying this knowledge to strengthen policies and processes.
• Build and sustain strong cross-functional partnerships to support operational alignment, issue resolution, and effective financial management.
• Lead continuous improvement of accounting processes, policies, and controls to enhance efficiency, service quality, and risk mitigation.
• Translate organizational vision and strategy into departmental execution, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and alignment with organizational values.

Requirements

Qualifications

Experience

• Minimum 8 years' experience, with 3-5 years in an accounting leadership role.
• Financial services or credit union experience preferred.
• Possesses strong technical accounting background.
• Demonstrated experience managing, hiring, and developing a talented, high-performing team.
• Advanced proficiency with MS Office applications, with an expert level of proficiency in Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new software programs as required.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or related field.
• CPA desirable

Leadership Competencies

Outcome & Results

Own your deliverables and KPIs-meet or exceed them by giving outcomes and overcoming obstacles.

Commitments

Treat W3s as promises – execute early, follow through consistently and renegotiate transparently when priorities shift. Reliability builds trust.

Business Maturity

Know your business – manage financials, operations and experiences with discipline and in full alignment with Sunward’s key results.

Growth Mindset

Be a learner not a knower – stay curious, ask questions, adapt quickly and embrace daily learning.

Preparation and Presence

Respect others by being early prepared and fully tuned in – never distracted or multitasking.

Feedback

Fuel growth by inviting, giving and acting on feedback – always candid, respectful and forward-focused.