Specialist, Accounting - Close Operations

Job Description

You will assist in the monthly, quarterly, and year‑end closing process for Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company. The hybrid role is located in Columbus, Ohio and requires office attendance two days per week.

• Lead in establishing and implementing new or revised accounting policies and procedures.
• Prepare and analyze sophisticated financial and regulatory statements for assigned business areas.
• Develop and record accounting transactions to ensure accurate reporting.
• Ensure completeness and accuracy of all reports, forms and data provided to internal and external stakeholders.
• Recommend management actions or alternatives when analysis reveals unfavorable trends or deviations.
• Stay informed of GAAP and regulatory changes that impact financial statements and reports.
• Recommend process improvements to enhance job performance, processing, or workflow.
• Lead development and design of new and improved systems and processes within the assigned areas.
• Prepare and analyze complex pro‑forma financial data for compliance.
• Assist management in applying financial data and analysis to solve administrative and operational problems.
• Prepare state and supplemental reporting requirements.
• Provide complex financial information to auditors, IRS, state examiners, and other regulators.
• Prepare special reports and presentations.
• Serve as a group leader for other accountants on selected projects.

May perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Reports to Accounting Manager or Director.

• Education: Undergraduate studies in accounting, finance, or business administration; accounting major and degree preferred.
• License/Certification: Progress toward CPA preferred.
• Experience: Four to six years of related accounting experience; insurance experience preferred.
• Knowledge, Abilities and
  
  Skills:
  
  GAAP and/or STAT knowledge; complex financial statement preparation; principles of taxation; accounting and business computer systems; strong verbal and written communication; analytical problem‑solving; project management; ability to interpret changes in financial reporting and legal requirements; advanced computer proficiency; application of accounting principles to specialized, unique, or nonrecurring problems.
• Other Criteria: Leadership skills and competencies may take precedence.
• Staffing Exceptions: Must be approved by hiring manager’s leader and HR Business Partner.

Regularly and consistently demonstrates Nationwide values.

• Overtime Eligibility: Exempt (not eligible).
• Working Conditions: Normal office environment; extended hours may be required during high volume periods.
• ADA: Statements cover principal and essential functions; some duties may vary based on circumstances.
• Credit/Background Check: Valid credit and/or background check required as part of the selection process.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Paid time off: minimum 18 days for newly hired associates, prorated quarterly based on hire date
• Nine paid holidays
• 8 hours of Lifetime paid time off
• 8 hours of Unity Day paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Company‑paid pension plan
• Business casual attire

National salary range for Specialist, Accounting: $79,500.00–$. Expected starting salary range: $79,500.00–$. Final compensation will be determined by skills, education, credentials, experience, scope, complexity, location, and labor market conditions.

Nationwide is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive culture where everyone feels challenged, appreciated, respected, and engaged. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable law.