Accounting Research Manager

We are a forward-thinking electric utility powered by a diverse team of employees committed to making customers’ lives brighter, the environment better and our communities stronger.

First Energy(NYSE: FE) is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability, and operational excellence. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, First Energy includes one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, and a regulated generating fleet with a total capacity of more than 3,500 megawatts.

This is an open position within First Energy Service Company, a subsidiary of First Energy Corp.

The Accounting Research Manager is responsible for leading the Company's accounting research function and providing technical accounting guidance on complex business transactions, emerging accounting issues, and financial reporting matters. This role serves as a key advisor to senior leadership, ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reporting requirements, and evolving accounting standards.

Reporting to the Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer, the Accounting Research Manager evaluates complex accounting matters, develops practical recommendations, and coordinates the implementation of new accounting standards across the organization. The role also partners closely with Financial Reporting, Internal Audit, business leaders, and external auditors to support accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and informed business decision-making.

• Provide authoritative accounting guidance and recommendations on complex business transactions and accounting matters
• Research, analyze, and document technical accounting conclusions in accordance with GAAP and SEC requirements
• Develop actionable alternatives and recommendations for management consideration, ensuring decisions are supported by sound analysis and business rationale
• Serve as a subject matter expert on technical accounting issues and accounting policy interpretation

• Monitor, evaluate, and interpret emerging accounting standards, regulatory developments, and SEC reporting requirements
• Assess the potential impact of new accounting pronouncements on the organization and communicate implications to leadership and key stakeholders
• Coordinate the implementation of new accounting standards, interpretations, and reporting requirements across the Company
• Prepare responses and position papers related to proposed accounting standards that may significantly impact the organization

• Partner with the Financial Reporting team to review and prepare disclosures for SEC filings and other external reporting requirements
• Support the preparation and review of technical accounting memorandums and accounting position papers
• Assist in evaluating the accounting implications of strategic initiatives, acquisitions, divestitures, financing activities, and other significant transactions

• Communicate technical accounting guidance and recommendations to senior leadership and business partners
• Prepare and deliver presentations regarding accounting developments, policies, and complex accounting issues to various levels of management
• Collaborate with external auditors to support technical accounting conclusions and ensure appropriate documentation of accounting positions
• Research, develop, and maintain Company accounting policies and procedures

• Lead, develop, and mentor a small team of accounting professionals
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence
• Manage multiple projects and priorities while ensuring timely completion of deliverables

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, or other similar certification, preferred
• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressive accounting experience, including significant technical accounting and financial reporting responsibilities
• Extensive knowledge of U.S. GAAP and SEC reporting requirements
• Demonstrated experience researching and resolving complex accounting…