Client Advisory Services - Accounting Manager

Windes is honored to be recognized as one of the best places to work in Southern California, reflecting our commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace where employees thrive. Since 1926, we have built a reputation for integrity, trust, and professional excellence. Our firm offers a unique balance of small-firm camaraderie and large-firm expertise, providing tailored client services while supporting employees with career growth, flexibility, and a collaborative environment.

We celebrate excellence through reward programs, team-building events, and firm-wide gatherings. Windes actively supports charitable organizations, with our leaders serving on over 50 nonprofit boards. Recognized as a Top 100 Accounting Firm by Accounting Today and Inside Public Accounting, Best Accounting Firm to Work For, and a Civic 50 Orange County honoree, we are dedicated to making a meaningful impact.

Purpose of this Position

Reporting to the Partner-in-Charge, the Client Advisory Services Manager oversees a diverse portfolio of clients, serving as the primary point of contact. This role is pivotal in ensuring that client deliverables uphold the firm’s commitment to exceptional service quality. You will mentor, supervise, coach staff and senior accountants, offering hands-on guidance in financial preparation, general ledger management, and bookkeeping services. Active participation in social networking events and professional associations will be key in developing both community and industry relationships.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise staff and senior accountants, providing leadership and guidance within the department.
• Support the Partners in managing overall departmental workload and meeting deadlines effectively.
• Conduct quarterly training sessions and develop training materials on accounting topics.
• Collaborate closely with other department managers to ensure seamless communication and operational efficiency.
• Stay updated on accounting regulations, concepts, and technological advancements.
• Assist in onboarding new clients and preparing new client proposals.
• Maintain strict quality control over client deliverables, including reviewing financial statements, accounting spreadsheets, payroll, sales and use tax returns, and more.
• Comfortably navigate various accounting platforms and bookkeeping spreadsheets, adhering to GAAP standards.
• Manage multiple client accounts simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of all commitments.
• Attend weekly leadership meetings and bi-monthly group meetings as required.
• Fulfill other duties and ad-hoc reporting assignments as delegated.

Practice Management Responsibilities

• Manage the Windes billing and accounts receivable process for assigned clients.
• Oversee the collection efforts and ensure timely invoicing.
• Monitor client accounts for overdue payments and take appropriate actions as necessary, including stopping work if clients are over 60 days in arrears.
• Participate in the new client proposal process, providing insights and financial data as needed.
• Collaborate with partners to optimize client engagements and ensure profitability.
• Contribute to practice growth initiatives through effective client management and service delivery.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This role includes direct supervisory responsibilities over assigned staff members.

Qualifications

To excel in this position, candidates should meet the following criteria:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Business or equivalent, along with 4 to 6 years of relevant experience and/or training. Prior experience in a Public Accounting Firm is advantageous.
• Strong mathematical skills, including the ability to calculate figures and interpret financial data.
• Proficiency in using accounting platforms (e.g., Quick Books Desktop/Online, Sage), computer spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel), and software such as Microsoft Office (Word, Adobe). Familiarity with  and Gusto is a plus.
• Excellent language and reasoning skills, capable of effectively communicating with clients and colleagues.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently or collaboratively in team settings, exhibiting flexibility and professional maturity.
• Uphold confidentiality and discretion, exercising sound judgment in all situations.
• Maintain composure under pressure, effectively managing deadlines and competing priorities.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, fostering constructive dialogue and mutual respect.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable to evolving client and business dynamics.
• Willingness to travel and work from client locations as needed.
• Adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.