Accounting Manager - Client Lead

Graphite Financial is a growing boutique finance, accounting, tax, and strategy firm () built to help startup and high‑growth companies scale efficiently and sustainably. Graphite Financial is redefining the “finance department” for early‑stage companies and VC‑backed startups. We deliver high‑caliber accounting and finance leadership and support to entrepreneurs and management teams building scalable, high‑growth companies. Our clients are actively managing cash burn, measuring performance, reporting to investors, making capital allocation decisions, and preparing for fundraising.

All of that takes expertise and time that founders don’t have and can’t afford to hire for. Graphite bridges the gap with flexible, fixed‑fee support packages that provide fractional leadership and operational support from CFOs, Controllers, FP&A Managers, and Tax leaders.

Graphite is looking for an experienced and process‑driven Accounting Manager/Client Lead ready to step into a high‑impact leadership role, guiding the financial strategy for a portfolio of high‑growth startup clients. We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader with a proven record of establishing strong financial controls and successfully scaling accounting operations. This is a hands‑on position that requires deep technical expertise, exceptional client relationship skills, and a passion for the fast‑paced world of startups.

This role is the direct owner of the client relationship, often partnering directly with the CEOs and executive teams of innovative, rapidly scaling companies. You won’t just oversee, you’ll strategize, implement, and deliver the financial clarity essential for their growth.

• Client Leadership :
  Serve as the primary, high‑touch contact for clients, owning the relationship and providing strategic advice on high‑level accounting, managerial accounting, and financial activities.
• Team Development :
  Manage, coach, and mentor a team of Staff and Senior Accountants, providing detailed review of their work to ensure impeccable quality and accuracy in financial reporting.
• Operational Excellence :
  Oversee all accounting functions, including the end‑to‑end monthly close process, financial statement preparation, and ensuring the smooth execution of day‑to‑day transactional work.
• Strategic Project Management :
  Coordinate and lead all activities for critical ad hoc projects, including external audits, due diligence support, and complex technical accounting research.
• Financial Insight :
  Deliver accurate, timely, and actionable client financial reporting to drive key decision‑making. This includes sophisticated analysis of key financial metrics, trends, and variances.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration :
  Partner closely with our internal Finance and Tax departments to ensure every client’s financial need is met with an exceptional level of customer service.

You are a strategic operator with the drive to build robust financial infrastructure for the next generation of industry leaders across a diverse portfolio of startups.

• Experience: You bring approximately 8+ years of relevant client‑facing accounting experience (public accounting or corporate accounting), with at least 2 years of experience managing a team.
• Education: A Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Accounting is required. A CPA or MBA is highly preferred, but not mandatory.
• Technical Expertise (BIG Plus): Significant expertise in Web3 (Crypto) accounting and/or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) accounting is a massive advantage.
• System Proficiency: Significant experience with core GL platforms like Quick Books Online, Net Suite, or Sage Intacct, plus exposure to modern, tech‑forward systems (e.g., Bill, Ramp, Stripe, Gusto, Rippling, Cin7, Brex).
• Communication: Possess strong communication skills with the rare ability to translate complex accounting concepts into clear, concise language for clients, executives, and non‑financial stakeholders.
• Mindset: You are a team player comfortable in a fast‑paced environment, possessing a high degree of professionalism, motivation, and a genuine passion for working with growing startup companies.
• Health & Wellness: Competitive…