Senior Manager, Accounting

When you join Sallie Mae, you become a champion for all students.

We’re on a mission to power confidence as students begin their unique journey. To help them plan their higher education, successfully finish, and prepare for life after school. To help them Start smart. Learn big.

Students need guidance navigating this important time in their life. They need someone who acknowledges that their education path is unique. They need a partner willing to evolve and not only meet but surpass their expectations. We’re changing. Because students need a better way.

We’re looking for people who are excited to drive this transformation. To break barriers and think of new ways to adapt, help, and create better experiences for students—and for each other.

This is where diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives matter. It’s where you’re empowered to bring your authentic self to work.

Feeling your best allows you to do your best. Our benefits take care of the whole you—from physical and mental to financial and professional. You’ll get opportunities to further your education and career, support for you and your family (including your pets!), paid time off to volunteer for the things that matter to you, and more.

We’re obsessed with impact and making a real difference. For us, that means putting relationships first, asking “why not?” when tackling challenges, and continuously learning new skills.

Come do more than join something, change something. For students, for future generations, for the future of education.

What You'll Contribute

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Manager in Accounting with a strong background in SQL and data analysis to join our dynamic finance team. This role will be responsible for leading accounting operations/projects, financial and regulatory reporting, and overseeing data-driven decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in accounting principles and expertise in leveraging SQL and data analysis tools to enhance financial processes, reporting, and compliance. They will also have an in-depth understanding of financial reporting requirements and be able to stay up-to-date on changes to accounting regulations and industry trends.

What You'll Do

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (such as IT, Operations, and Finance) to implement and maintain SQL-based tools, systems, and databases that support financial reporting and decision-making.

• Analyze large volumes of financial data using SQL and other data analysis tools to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for process improvement.

• Ensure compliance with all accounting regulations and standards, including GAAP.

• Develop and maintain accounting policies and procedures to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.

• Work with external auditors, banks, and other financial institutions to ensure compliance and efficient financial operations.

• Monitor and report on financial metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior management.

• Collaborate with other departments, such as legal and HR, to ensure accurate financial reporting for all business activities.

The above information is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this job; it is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees in this role.
 

What you have

Minimum education, skills and experience required.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA preferred.

• Strong understanding of accounting regulations and standards, including GAAP.

• Expertise in leveraging SQL and data analysis tools to enhance financial processes.

• Excellent leadership skills and the ability to manage a team effectively.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with other departments and stakeholders.

• High level of integrity and ethics.

Preferred education, skills, and experience.

• At least 6 years of experience in accounting, with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership role.

The Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination by employers, in compensation and employment opportunities, against qualified individuals with disabilities who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the “essential func