What does a certified public accountant do?
Certified public accountants (CPAs) are licensed accounting professionals who specialise in financial reporting, tax preparation, auditing, and regulatory compliance. They ensure businesses maintain accurate financial records, comply with tax laws, and optimise financial strategies to improve profitability and efficiency.
The primary role of certified public accountants is to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial information. Beyond bookkeeping, CPAs provide strategic economic insights that help businesses manage risk, improve profitability, and comply with tax laws. They are crucial in budgeting, financial forecasting, risk management, and forensic accounting. These professionals work in diverse industries, including corporate finance, public accounting firms, government agencies, private businesses, or as independent consultants.
CPAs differ from general accountants due to their certification, adherence to strict ethical standards, and ability to represent clients before the IRS. They have passed rigorous CPA exams, fulfilled state licensing requirements, and often have expertise in tax laws, auditing standards, and financial management.
Similarly, while chartered accountants (CAs) and certified public accountants (CPAs) perform similar roles, CAs are certified by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and often focus more on auditing, taxation, and financial management within India.
Job Description: Template
We’re seeking a highly skilled certified public accountant to join our team at [Company X].
As a CPA, you will be responsible for financial reporting, tax planning, and regulatory compliance. You will ensure our financial practices align with industry standards and legal requirements as well as provide strategic financial insights to support business growth. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly analytical, and possesses a strong knowledge of accounting principles, tax laws, and financial reporting standards. If you’re adept at financial accuracy, risk management, and business advisory, we encourage you to apply!
We offer an attractive remuneration package with a collaborative work environment, professional growth opportunities, and employee benefits like health insurance, flexible work arrangements, and continuous learning programs.
Objectives of the role
- Maintaining and analysing financial records, budgets, and general ledgers.
- Preparing and reviewing financial statements (balance sheets, income statements, cash flow reports, etc.).
- Ensuring regulatory compliance with tax laws, filing federal and state tax returns, and identifying tax-saving opportunities.
- Conducting forensic accounting, audits, fraud detection, and risk assessments to ensure regulatory compliance and internal controls.
- Providing financial forecasting, budgeting, and cash flow management insights.
- Assisting with cost analysis, financial planning, and business decision-making.
- Managing accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and reconciliations.
- Advising clients or management on financial strategies, risk management, and investment opportunities.
- Supporting external audits, liaising with tax authorities, and resolving financial discrepancies.
Your tasks
- Maintain accurate general ledger records and financial reconciliations.
- Oversee financial forecasting, cash flow management, and budgeting.
- Identify efficiencies and cost-saving measures within financial operations.
- Assist in financial restructuring and M&A initiatives (mergers and acquisitions).
- Implement accounting software solutions and optimise financial processes.
- Advise on investment strategies, risk mitigation, and tax-saving opportunities.
- Prepare financial reports for stakeholders, investors, and regulatory agencies.
- Monitor changes in tax codes, financial laws, and accounting standards.
- Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, SEC filings, and corporate tax policies.
- Stay updated on accounting regulations (GAAP, IFRS), tax law updates, and regulatory compliance news.
Required skills and qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
- 3-5 years of experience in accounting, tax auditing, or financial analysis.
- Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, Tally, SAP, Xero, NetSuite, Oracle Financials) and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, IFRS, tax regulations, and financial reporting standards.
- Experience with financial forecasting, auditing, and tax preparation.
- Familiarity with ERP systems, tax compliance tools, and financial reporting software.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to explain financial concepts to stakeholders.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- High level of integrity and ethical decision-making.
Preferred skills and qualifications
- Advanced degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- Additional certifications, such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).
- Experience in IRS audits, corporate finance, investment analysis, or forensic accounting.
- Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, SEC reporting, SOX compliance, internal controls, and financial risk management.
- Background in public accounting firms, financial consulting, or advisory services.
- Familiarity with business valuations and financial due diligence.
