Job Description: General Accountant for a Business Holdings Company (New Zealand and US Accounting)
Position: General Accountant
Location: Remote
Job Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced General Accountant to manage the accounting, financial operations and collections (AR) of small business holdings in New Zealand and the United States. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of both New Zealand and U.S. accounting standards, tax regulations, and business practices. This role requires a proactive individual who can handle a wide range of accounting tasks, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with local laws.
Key Responsibilities:
- Financial Reporting:
- Prepare and maintain accurate financial statements in accordance with New Zealand GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and U.S. GAAP.
- Conduct regular reconciliations of accounts, including bank, inventory, and intercompany accounts.
- Generate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for management review.
- Tax Compliance:
- Ensure compliance with all tax regulations in both New Zealand and the United States.
- Prepare and submit GST/VAT returns for New Zealand and sales tax returns for various U.S. states.
- Assist with the preparation of corporate tax returns and liaise with external auditors and tax advisors as needed.
- Accounts Payable and Receivable:
- Oversee the management of accounts payable and accounts receivable functions, ensuring timely payments and collections.
- Monitor cash flow and prepare cash flow forecasts.
- Payroll Processing:
- Manage payroll processing for employees in both New Zealand and the United States, ensuring compliance with local employment laws.
- Reconcile payroll accounts and ensure accurate recording of payroll expenses.
- Budgeting and Forecasting:
- Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts.
- Monitor budget variances and provide insights and recommendations for cost control.
- Financial Analysis:
- Perform financial analysis to support business decisions, including profitability analysis, cost analysis, and scenario planning.
- Identify trends and provide recommendations for improving financial performance.
- Audit and Internal Controls:
- Coordinate and support internal and external audits.
- Implement and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with other departments, including Operations, HR, and Legal, to ensure financial alignment with overall business objectives.
- Provide financial support for business projects and initiatives.
Requirements
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA or equivalent certification is preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in accounting, with expertise in both New Zealand and U.S. accounting practices.
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, MYOB) and MS Excel.
- Strong knowledge of tax regulations and compliance in New Zealand and the U.S.
- Experience with multi-currency transactions and consolidations.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
