Accounting Manager (Hybrid)

Location: Metuchen, NJ
Schedule: Hybrid (In-office Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday)

A growing and well-established organization in the Central New Jersey area is seeking an experienced Accounting Manager to lead core accounting operations, financial reporting, and team development initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on accounting professional who enjoys partnering with leadership, improving processes, and driving operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Close Process

• Manage the monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close processes.
• Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of balance sheet accounts and related controls.
• Prepare and analyze financial reports, including monthly results and variance analysis.
• Support leadership with timely and accurate financial information for decision-making.

General Ledger & Accounting Operations

• Maintain the general ledger and chart of accounts.
• Review complex accounting transactions and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
• Analyze financial fluctuations and resolve discrepancies.
• Provide accounting guidance and support to internal stakeholders.
• Oversee accounting activities related to payroll, accruals, bonuses, and other key financial areas.

Accounts Payable & Operational Support

• Supervise accounts payable activities, vendor payments, and cash disbursement processes.
• Review payment schedules and support cash management initiatives.
• Resolve vendor-related issues and improve transaction workflows.
• Collaborate with operational teams to strengthen financial controls and efficiency.

Audit, Compliance & Risk Management

• Coordinate annual audits and serve as a primary contact for external auditors.
• Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls, company policies, and accounting regulations.
• Identify areas of financial risk and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain audit readiness throughout the year.

Treasury & Financial Administration

• Assist with cash management and banking relationships.
• Support accounting activities related to insurance programs and claims.
• Monitor related accruals and reporting requirements.
• Participate in initiatives that strengthen financial governance and compliance.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting staff.
• Establish performance expectations and provide ongoing coaching.
• Conduct performance evaluations and support career development efforts.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and continuous improvement-focused culture.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and talent development initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Finance, Operations, Human Resources, Supply Chain, and Executive Leadership teams.
• Provide financial insights that support strategic business decisions.
• Participate in process improvement projects, system enhancements, and special initiatives.
• Serve as a trusted resource for accounting and financial matters across the organization.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 6 years of progressive accounting experience.
• 3 years of supervisory or management experience.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting principles.
• Experience managing month-end and year-end close processes.
• Experience supporting external audits.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience working with ERP systems and financial reporting tools.

Preferred

• CPA designation.
• Experience within retail, distribution, manufacturing, or multi-site organizations.
• Background supporting growing or evolving businesses.
• Experience leading process improvement or system implementation initiatives.

What Success Looks Like

• Accurate and timely completion of financial close activities.
• High-quality financial reporting and analysis.
• Successful audit outcomes and strong internal controls.
• Improved accounting processes and operational efficiencies.
• Effective development and engagement of team members.
• Strong partnerships with business leaders and cross-functional teams.

This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional seeking a visible leadership role with the ability to influence processes, mentor a team, and contribute to the continued growth of a dynamic organization.

Determining compensation for this role (and others) at Vaco/Highspring depends upon a wide array of factors including but not limited to the individual’s skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, office location and other geographic considerations, as well as other business and organizational needs. With that said, as required by local law in geographies that require salary range disclosure, Vaco/Highspring notes the salary range for the role is noted in this job posting. The individual may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, and can participate in medical, dental, and vision benefits as well as the company’s 401(k) retirement plan. Additional disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted in the job description, the position Vaco/Highspring is filing for is occupied. Please note, however, that Vaco/Highspring is regularly asked to provide talent to other organizations. By submitting to this position, you are agreeing to be included in our talent pool for future hiring for similarly qualified positions. Submissions to this position are subject to the use of AI to perform preliminary candidate screenings, focused on ensuring minimum job requirements noted in the position are satisfied. Further assessment of candidates beyond this initial phase within Vaco/Highspring will be otherwise assessed by recruiters and hiring managers. Vaco/Highspring does not have knowledge of the tools used by its clients in making final hiring decisions and cannot opine on their use of AI products.