What does a financial accountant do?

A financial accountant is crucial in managing and maintaining an organisation’s financial records and ensuring accuracy. They track and analyse transactions, prepare financial statements and provide essential insights into the company’s financial health.

The primary responsibilities of financial accountants include recording and classifying fiscal data, reconciling accounts, managing payroll and expenses, conducting financial analysis and assisting in budgeting and forecasting.

Additionally, they ensure compliance with accounting principles and regulations, support decision-making by providing information and contribute to achieving the organisation’s financial goals. They also act as consultants for senior managers, conducting cost and revenue analyses and providing recommendations.

Financial accountants monitor internal activities, manage tax payments and perform internal audits. Their expertise and contributions are vital in enabling budgeting, investment decisions and the overall financial stability of the organisation.

Cost accountant, financial analyst, audit accountant and tax accountant are some alternative job titles for financial accountants.

Job Description: Template

We are seeking a skilled financial accountant to maintain our financial records and ensure compliance with accounting regulations at [Company X].

As a financial accountant, you will oversee the organisation’s financial health. Your expertise in fiscal analysis, reporting and management will help drive sound decision-making and help the company achieve its strategic objectives. As a vital team member, you will be critical in interpreting financial data, providing insights to support decision-making and implementing strategies to optimise economic performance while minimising tax liabilities.

If you have a strong understanding of financial principles and possess an analytical edge, we invite you to apply for this position. We offer competitive compensation packages, health benefits and opportunities for growth within the company. Our company values diversity and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Objectives of this role

  • Managing and maintaining financial records, including general ledger accounts and financial statements.
  • Reviewing financial documents and transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Performing financial analysis and reporting to support business decisions.
  • Preparing and reviewing annual/quarterly budgets, forecasts and financial reports.
  • Developing and implementing economic policies and procedures in the company.
  • Reviewing and processing vendor invoices with an accurate booking of TDS/GST in the Oracle system.
  • Providing timely financial information to support decision-making processes.
  • Contributing to the overall financial health and stability of the organisation.  

Your tasks

  • Prepare and present statements, such as balance sheets, income and cash flow.
  • Perform monthly, quarterly and annual financial closing activities.
  • Reconcile financial discrepancies by collecting and studying account information.
  • Analyse financial data to identify trends, variances and opportunities for improvement and provide insights to management for decision-making.
  • Manage treasury payment issues where applicable, including domestic and foreign payments.
  • Ensure that the organisation complies with all financial regulations, including tax laws, accounting standards and reporting requirements in India.
  • Understand the recorded loans and SEC and regulatory reporting.
  • Collaborate and consult with stakeholders throughout the enterprise.

Required skills and qualifications

  • A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field.
  • Professional certification such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is preferred.
  • 4+ years of experience in accounting or finance.
  • Good technical knowledge in tax and accounting, including but not limited to regional India sub-continent countries’ statutory tax requirements.
  • Strong understanding of accounting principles, practices and procedures.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word).
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in financial data analysis and reporting.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Experience in financial analysis and forecasting.
  • Knowledge of accounting software such as QuickBooks, SAP and/or Oracle.
  • Experience in a multinational or cross-cultural work environment.
  • Knowledge of IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards).
  • Great organisational and time management skills.