Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
CONTACT: more information and apply
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Senior Accounting Manager reports to the Associate Director of Accounting and is a key member of the CSFA leadership team. This role provides oversight to the accounting teams responsible for real estate accounting and Campus Services–wide accounting deliverables. The Senior Accounting Manager ensures strong internal controls and full compliance with GAAP, University and Campus Services accounting policies, and applicable federal and state regulations.
The role is also responsible for driving process improvement and efficiency through effective use of technology and automation. Success in this position requires strong leadership, independent judgment, critical analysis, clear communication, advanced technical accounting systems skills, and innovative problem solving. The Senior Accounting Manager collaborates with a wide range of university partners, including (but not limited to) Harvard University Housing & Real Estate, the Office of the General Counsel, the Office of the Controller, CS Financial Planning & Analysis, the Tax Office, and Information Technology, to address complex accounting issues and align stakeholders.
REQUIREMENTS:
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or equivalent work experience required
- Minimum of 8 years’ relevant work experience
- Supervisory experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
- CPA or MBA preferred.
- Progressive accounting and finance experience, with a significant focus on real estate.
- A proven people leader with at least 3 years of management experience preferred
- Experience in real estate accounting required. Relevant experience in Property Management Company, REIT, or large, diverse institution with substantial real estate portfolio preferred.
- Proven ability to quickly analyze and resolve complex accounting issues.
- Strong working knowledge of GAAP.
- Robust command of enterprise resource planning and financial and operational systems including Yardi.
- Demonstrated experience in data management, systems implementation, financial analysis, and business process redesign.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel skills.
- People-first, coaching-oriented, and collaborative leader with strong communication and interpersonal skills who listens actively, builds rapport at all levels, demonstrates genuine care for employee well-being and work–life balance, provides clear feedback and direction, involves staff in decision-making where appropriate, empowers and delegates effectively, addresses performance and operational challenges proactively, and supports employee growth through ongoing coaching, development opportunities, and a focus on purpose and career progression.