Accounting Manager

Reports to:

Director of Finance

Frustrated with cookie‑cutter education models? So are we. At The Heron Institute, we create schools that adapt to real‑world needs—because every community deserves a chance to thrive.

The mission of The Heron Institute is to provide enhanced virtual education programs that prepare students for life beyond school - regardless of circumstances.

Anticipated Salary: $65,000 - $108,000. This is an exempt position.

Time Off Plan: 25 days PTO July 1-June 30, MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, Spring Break, Memorial Day, Week of July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (Wed-Fri), Winter Break (Dec 24 - Jan
1).

The Accounting Manager will serve as the technical lead for our finance department, ensuring high‑fidelity financial reporting and compliance. Reporting directly to the Director of Finance, this role will oversee the day‑to‑day operations of payroll and benefits, manage local, state and federal reporting compliance for our schools and the Heron Foundation, and provide the technical groundwork for our external financial service offerings to other charter schools.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

• Financial Reporting & Analysis:
  Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and South Carolina charter school requirements.
• Payroll & Benefits Oversight:
  Assume full responsibility for the accuracy of payroll processing and the administration of employee benefits, ensuring seamless integration from HR.
• Compliance & Audit:
  Lead the preparation for annual financial audits. Ensure strict adherence to the SC Department of Education’s Financial Accounting Handbook and Grant requirements (Title I, IDEA, etc.).
• Client Service Support:
  Support the Director of Finance in onboarding external charter school clients by providing technical expertise, "clean" reporting templates, and compliance checks.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
• Five (5) years of accounting experience
• Background in non‑profit, charter school, or public‑sector fund accounting
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., QBO, Sage Intacct, or Net Suite) and complex payroll platforms.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills
• Professional experience using Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook;
  Familiarity with using databases;
  Web proficiency
• Ability to embrace change and adapt to ensure excellent service to schools
• Ability to problem solve independently and have a high level of organization
• Ability to work independently, typically 40+ hours per week
• Ability to pass required background check
• Track record of timely successful task/project completion

• CPA highly preferred (or active candidacy/eligibility with a plan for licensure within 12–18 months).
• School Business Official certification
• Multi‑unit or multi‑organization experience and shared services allocations

This position has 0-4 direct reports. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

As a staff member at The Heron Institute, you’ll enjoy:

• Benefits:
  Health care, dental, life insurance, and retirement through PEBA - Keep your service credit!
• Work from home 8am-4pm
• Laptop provided by the school and eligibility for internet reimbursement

All staff must reside in the state of South Carolina.

• Travel to Greenville headquarters or other statewide locations as needed
• Quarterly department gatherings
• Periodic district or state level trainings in Columbia
• All‑staff professional development in July (2-3 days)
• In‑person student outings once per semester
• Other travel may be discussed during the interview process and travel can be added as needed by administration

We offer state health benefits and retirement through PEBA as well as deferred compensation…